Romantics in Retrospect

A Singaporean pianist now based in Berlin, Shaun began his studies at Salzburg’s Mozarteum University at the age of 14, earning both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees with the highest distinction. In 2019, he became the first external piano candidate in many years accepted into the Konzertexamen program at the University of the Arts Berlin. A 13-time international Competition prizewinner, Shaun is acclaimed for his expressive depth and affinity for Romantic music.


The program opens with Chopin’s dramatic Scherzo No. 1, the introspective Nocturne in c minor, and the heroic Polonaise in f-sharp minor, followed by Mendelssohn’s Fantasie in f-sharp minor, a work of storm and lyricism inspired by his travels in Scotland. The second half explores the lush world of Rachmaninov — from the poetic Prelude in b minorand the fiery Prelude in g minor to the soulful Vocalise, arranged by Zoltán Kocsis. The evening concludes with Choo’s own Time Traveller’s Sonata, traversing musical eras from Baroque elegance to Jazz-inspired exuberance — a personal statement on the timelessness of art.


FREE ADMISSION.

Program:

Frédéric Chopin (1810 – 1849)
Scherzo No. 1 in B minor, Op. 20
Nocturne in C minor, Op. 48 No. 1
Polonaise in F-sharp minor, Op. 44

Felix Mendelssohn (1809 – 1847)
Fantasie in F-sharp minor, Op. 28 “Scottish Sonata”⁃ I. Con moto agitato⁃ II. Allegro con moto⁃ III. Presto


INTERMISSION

Sergei Rachmaninov (1873 – 1943)
Prelude in B minor, Op. 32 No. 10
Prelude in G minor, Op. 23 No. 5
Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14 (Arr. Zoltán Kocsis)
Shaun Choo (b. 1991)

The Time Traveller’s Sonata
I. Allegro Brioso
II. Dolente – Molto Espressivo
III. Allegro Assai


After the concert, guests are warmly invited to stay for a short meet & greet + autograph signingsession with Shaun Choo.