Evgeny Kissin’s Stunning Encore at the 2000 Proms: Rachmaninov’s Prelude in G Minor

A Powerful Performance of Rachmaninov’s 2nd Piano Concerto

Before the encore, Kissin had already captivated the Royal Albert Hall with his performance of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2, a piece renowned for its emotional depth and technical difficulty. The concerto’s grand, sweeping themes, followed by delicate and intimate moments, demand a pianist who can balance both the technical rigor and expressive power of the composition. Kissin, known for his flawless technique and emotional intensity, delivered a performance that was nothing short of spectacular.

But it was what came next that truly resonated with the audience.

The Prelude in G Minor: A Moment of Musical Perfection

Following the concerto, Kissin launched into an encore performance of Rachmaninov’s Prelude in G Minor, Op. 23 No. 5. Composed in 1901, this prelude is one of the most iconic pieces in Rachmaninov’s Opus 23 set of ten preludes. It is a strikingly dramatic work, beginning with a bold and forceful opening that contrasts with the delicate middle section, before building to an exhilarating conclusion. The piece, while demanding in its technical complexity, is also deeply emotional, capturing both the darker and more lyrical elements of Rachmaninov’s compositional voice.

Kissin, with his immense technical skill and expressiveness, delivered this prelude with a mixture of precision and passion. The richness of his sound, the careful shaping of each phrase, and the dramatic contrasts throughout the piece kept the audience in rapt attention, even after the monumental Piano Concerto No. 2.

The Tempo Debate: Circumstances of the Night

As the performance was broadcast live on both television and radio, many listeners compared Kissin’s tempo to other performances of the same piece, particularly studio recordings. Some comments noted that his interpretation felt a bit faster than usual, leading to discussions about whether this was a deliberate artistic choice or an anomaly.

However, the context of the evening plays an important role in understanding Kissin’s approach. The concert had taken place on a hot July evening, in a packed Royal Albert Hall. After a long first half, which featured Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and Stokowski’s arrangement of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, the audience was eager for the interval, and the atmosphere in the hall was electric with anticipation. The fact that the BBC was televising and broadcasting the performance live to a global audience added another layer of pressure to the event.

Given the lively and historic atmosphere of the “First Night of the Proms,” it’s likely that Kissin was acutely aware of the time constraints and the need to finish the first half with a flourish, possibly contributing to the faster tempo. Additionally, the adrenaline of the evening—along with the excitement of performing before such a large and enthusiastic crowd—may have influenced his pacing, leading him to deliver a more brisk performance than in a more controlled, studio setting.

Kissin’s Legacy: A Stunning Moment in Proms History

Regardless of the tempo discussion, Kissin’s performance that night remains a shining example of his musicality and artistry. The fact that he chose to give his audience this impromptu encore, despite the pressure of time and the schedule, speaks to his commitment to delivering the best possible experience for his listeners. The response from the audience was overwhelming, as they refused to let him leave without more music. His encore of the Prelude in G Minor was a powerful addition to an already memorable evening.

In the years since, Kissin’s Rachmaninov encore has continued to be a favorite of music lovers, not just for the stunning display of virtuosity, but also for the way it captures the essence of the Proms spirit—an atmosphere of excitement, unpredictability, and pure musical joy. Though it may never be quite the same as a studio performance, the magic of that night is what makes it so special: an unforgettable experience that only live music can provide.

Conclusion: A Historic Proms Moment

Evgeny Kissin’s performance of Rachmaninov’s Prelude in G Minor as an encore at the First Night of the 2000 Proms remains one of the most cherished musical moments in Proms history. Whether one listens to the performance on a recording or recalls the vivid energy of that hot July night, the brilliance of Kissin’s playing continues to captivate audiences. The combination of technical mastery, emotional depth, and the unique circumstances of the evening made this moment unforgettable.