Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano

Step into a world of sound, color, and imagination as renowned pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet performs all 24 of Claude Debussy’s Préludes—an immersive journey through one of music’s most atmospheric masterpieces. This landmark program, closing Friends of Chamber Music’s 2025-26 season, marks Thibaudet’s first solo recital with FCM since 2011. The performance takes place Thursday, May 7 at Gates Concert Hall at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts.

Spanning two books of 24 luminous miniatures, Debussy’s Préludes evoke vivid imagery and poetic nuance, with titles such as “The Girl with the Flaxen Hair” and “Footsteps in the Snow.” Each brief work is painted in subtle colors, hazy harmonies, and daring textures. This rare complete performance offers an unforgettable journey through Debussy’s richly impressionistic sound world.

For more than three decades, Thibaudet has captivated audiences around the globe. Praised by the Los Angeles Times as “a master colorist” whose “every note he plays is a pearl,” Thibaudet has recorded over 50 albums and earned a reputation as one of today’s most extraordinary pianists.

“Sophistication and suavity, both clarity and freedom.” —The New York Times

This performance is generously sponsored by CPR Classical.

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