"There are two possibilities when you reach 70: go into hiding or face reality. I have decided to do the latter." Whatever the implications of the reality that Alfred Brendel was referring to in the programme for this performance, on one level it involves a busy year giving birthday concerts worldwide.
Why on earth this most distinguished pianist should have considered going into hiding will be a mystery to the admirers who packed the Festival Hall on Wednesday night. They were there to hear the first in a month-long series celebrating Brendel as recitalist, concerto soloist, chamber musician, accompanist, poet and writer: one of music's most eloquent renaissance men.
Perhaps the reality is the fact that, inevitably, his dexterity may lessen with time. But Brendel's trump card has always been intellectual clarity rather than showmanship: he has a no-nonsense approach that works because he knows exactly which notes need a performer's help and which will speak for themselves.
And he need not fear he is turning into an elderly pianist: his playing is as robust, as free of sentiment as ever. In recent seasons he has concentrated almost exclusively on the classical repertoire, a direction that this programme reflected. Haydn's Sonata in G minor was played with a matter- of-fact firmness that occasionally gave in to a hint of wistful nostalgia, revealing a sense of unease.
Brendel has called Beethoven's Diabelli Variations a humorous work in the widest possible sense. Yet there is genuine emotion in it too, and this reading was distinguished by the subtle immediacy with which Brendel switched between affectionate send-up and utter sincerity.
The changes came thick and fast towards the end, seeming to suggest that the line between good and trite music is thinner than one might think, and that this is something to be celebrated rather than reviled. Certainly the audience, who roared their approval, seemed to agree.
Alfred Brendel's 70th birthday series continues until June 30. Box office: 020-7960 4242. A version of this review appeared in later editions of yesterday's paper.
