Brazilian pianist and conductor João Carlos Martins, renowned 20th-century interpreter of Bach, returns to the Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage for his farewell concert with NOVUS. This Musica Codetta production features classical masterpieces that celebrate Martins’ career and art.
João Carlos Martins was born in São Paulo, Brazil, in 1940. He began playing piano at four years old and was performing in public by seven. His initial musical education was provided by his father, a professional violinist. At nine years old, Martins was accepted into the São Paulo National Music Conservatory, where he studied with the renowned pianist and composer Heitor Villa-Lobos.
In 1959, Martins debuted with the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra and soon after began international tours. He performed with some of the world’s leading orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the New York Philharmonic. He also conducted several orchestras, including the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
In addition to his career as a concert pianist, Martins has been a professor at the São Paulo National Music Conservatory since 1965. He has also served as artistic director of the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra since 1988.
Legacy
João Carlos Martins is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. He has been praised for his technical mastery and emotional depth, and his interpretations of Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart are considered among the best ever recorded. He is also credited with helping to bring classical music to a wider audience in Brazil, and his influence can be seen in the work of many younger Brazilian musicians.
Martins has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of Rio Branco, the highest honor bestowed by the Brazilian government. He also received honorary doctorates from the University of São Paulo and the University of Oxford.
When: Friday, May 9, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
Where: Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage (Carnegie Hall)
Tickets: https://www.carnegiehall.org/Cart/Event-Seating?itemNumber=50178#/
Sources: Carnegie Hall and Biog.com