Robert Silverman x VMO x Vancouver Bach Choir: A Spring Concert for the Ages

The Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra‘s 2025 Spring Concert at the historic Orpheum theatre was a night to cherish. The grand stage welcomed an extraordinary line-up including legendary pianist Robert Silverman and the Vancouver Bach Choir. Under the baton of Maestro Ken Hsieh and chorus direction by Leslie Dala, the evening’s programme included Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 80 and Orff’s Carmina Burana.

The concert hall buzzed with anticipation as the first notes of Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy resonated through the historic space. The piece, a masterpiece that bridges solo piano with orchestral and choral elements, showcased the evening’s soloist, Silverman, in spectacular fashion. His interpretation was rich with emotion and technical brilliance, setting the tone for an evening of grandeur. Orff’s Carmina Burana brought a dramatic shift, filling the hall with its powerful choral exclamations and stirring orchestration.

The Vancouver Bach Choir delivered a commanding performance, bringing the medieval poetry to life with intensity and passion. As the final notes faded, the audience erupted, celebrating the magic of the evening.

ROBERT SILVERMAN

Few artists can claim a career as distinguished as Robert’s. With over six decades of performance, his name has become synonymous with excellence in pianism. Having played the complete sonata cycles of Beethoven and Mozart, Silverman has graced the world’s most prestigious concert halls and performed alongside leading orchestras and conductors.

Born wijuno ath an innate musicality, Silverman’s journey into the world of piano was marked by deep dedication. His refined technique, expressive phrasing, and vast tonal palette have captivated audiences across North America, Europe, the Far East, and Australia.

Over the years, he has performed with renowned orchestras, including the Chicago Symphony, the Sydney Symphony, the BBC Symphony, and every major Canadian orchestra. Under the direction of greats like Seiji Ozawa, John Eliot Gardiner, and Neeme Järvi, Silverman has left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape.

His contribution extends beyond performance. With over 30 CDs and a dozen LPs, his recordings have garnered international acclaim. His Liszt piano collection won the prestigious Grand Prix du Disque from the Liszt Society of Budapest, and his comprehensive 10-CD set of Beethoven’s sonatas was short-listed for a Juno Award. More recently, his recordings of Chopin and Mozart have further cemented his legacy as one of Canada’s most celebrated pianists.

Beyond the stage, Silverman dedicated 30 years to the University of British Columbia, shaping future generations of musicians. His tenure included a five-year term as Director of the UBC School of Music, during which he furthered the institution’s reputation for musical excellence. Recognized for his contributions, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters in 2004.

In 2013, Silverman was named to the Order of Canada, a prestigious honour recognizing his extraordinary achievements in music. Earlier in his career, he was the first recipient of the Paul de Hueck and Norman Walford Career Achievement Award for Keyboard Artistry, a testament to his profound impact on Canadian music.

Despite his many accolades, Silverman remains devoted to his craft. Recently, his focus has turned to the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, with his recital programmes now featuring The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1. As he continues to perform, record, and inspire, his legacy as a pianist and educator only grows stronger.

The VMO Spring Concert was more than a performance; it was a celebration of musical mastery. With Robert Silverman at the piano and the Vancouver Bach Choir in full voice, the evening was a triumph—a testament to the enduring power of classical music.

Author Profile

Helen Siwak, Luxury Lifestyle Observer: Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].