Jazz Meets Classical Piano by Candlelight at St Mary le Strand

About the Event

Enter the candlelit splendour of St Mary le Strand for an unforgettable evening of piano music from acclaimed pianist Simon Watterton.

This captivating recital unfolds through a vibrant, eclectic selection, from Bach’s timeless brilliance to the jazz‐infused rhythms of Gershwin and Joplin, alongside the distinctive modern voices of Milhaud, Kapustin, and Gulda. The dazzling programme reveals expressive depth, rhythmic energy, and pianistic virtuosity.

Highlights include Gershwin’s evocative Prelude No. 2 in C‐sharp minor and beloved favourites The Man I Love, 'S Wonderful, and I Got Rhythm. Also featured are selections from Gulda’s playful Play Piano Play, Joplin’s spirited Euphonic Sounds, and two contrasting Bach Preludes and Fugues from the Well‐Tempered Klavier. The evening reaches its thrilling climax with Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue, blending classical sophistication with jazz‐inspired energy.

Whether you are a seasoned concertgoer or seeking a magical evening out, this performance offers a unique journey through sound and emotion, within one of London’s most atmospheric settings.

Programme
Gershwin – Prelude No. 2 in C‐sharp minor
Milhaud – Romance from Trois Rag‐Caprices
Bach – Prelude and Fugue in C minor from Book I of The Well‐Tempered Klavier
Kapustin – Preludes (Selection)
Gershwin – The Man I Love, 'S Wonderful and I Got Rhythm
Gulda – Play Piano Play (Selection)
Joplin – Euphonic Sounds
Bach – Prelude and Fugue in B‐flat minor from Book II of The Well‐Tempered Klavier
Gershwin – Rhapsody in Blue

Wirral‐born pianist Simon Watterton has performed worldwide as a soloist and chamber musician. In recent years, he has appeared in China, Canada, the USA, Sweden, and Italy, as well as throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland. He made his concerto debut at London’s Cadogan Hall and was named a Rising Star in International Piano Magazine while presenting a London cycle of all the Beethoven piano sonatas. He has performed at Wigmore Hall, St John’s, Smith Square, and the Purcell Room, as well as live on Radio 3’s InTune and Classic FM. As a chamber musician, he has twice undertaken collaborative piano internships at Canada’s Banff Centre and worked with artists including his wife, Irish violinist Anna Cashell, ‘cellist Raphael Wallfisch, and violinist Daniel Rohn. His piano trio has also performed extensively across the UK to critical acclaim.