This concert is part of 'The Fabulous Four', a two-day free piano festival at the Winter Circus in Ghent.

Marie François | Parisian Reverie

Experience the intimate world of Parisian salons in the unique setting of the Winter Circus.

With Parisian Reverie, Belgian pianist Marie François pays homage to the rich tradition of the 19th and early 20th century Parisian salons—warm, small-scale gatherings where music was not just heard but deeply felt.

Marie François brings this salon atmosphere to life with the works of composers closely associated with this culture: Debussy, Ravel, Satie, and especially Chopin, whose Nocturnes capture the essence of Parisian salon life—intimate, dreamy, and profoundly human.

In addition to masterpieces like Debussy’s L’isle joyeuse and Ravel’s Jeux d'eau, François also includes surprises such as John Cage’s 4’33”, which challenges the audience to actively listen—not just to the music but to the space itself.

Marie François is one of the most captivating voices in Belgian classical music. She has performed at prestigious stages both at home and abroad, released multiple acclaimed recordings, and is the first Yamaha Classical Artist in the Benelux. With Parisian Reverie, she returns to the heart of what music can be: a shared experience in an intimate setting.

Program:

John Cage (1912-1992)

• 4’33

Frederick Chopin (1810 – 1849)

• selection of Nocturnes

Maurice Ravel (1875 – 1937)

• Jeux d’eau
• Sonatine: I. Modéré - II. Mouvement de menuet - III. Animé

Claude Debussy (1862 – 1918)

• Pour le piano L.95: I. Prelude - II. Sarabande - III. Toccata
• L’isle joyeuse L. 106

On May 22, 2025, Marie François will present her brand-new album 'Who doesn’t love Chopin’s nocturnes?'. A pre-order for this album can be requested during the registration for this concert, or afterward on the day of the performance.

This concert is in collaboration with Yamaha

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The Fabulous Four

Free test sessions, a classical solo recital, an aperitif concert featuring young talent, an engaging debate, and a vibrant jazz battle. Quatre Mains Pianos invites everyone to listen to, compare, and experience four of the best concert grand pianos in the world.

Step into the magical Winter Circus and discover ‘The Fabulous Four’.

May 10, 2025

11:00-18:00: Test session The Fabulous Four

21:00-22:00: Marie François | Parisian Reverie

May 11, 2025

11:00-13:00: Aperitif concert Cantabile Piano Competition

14:00-16:00: Test session The Fabulous Four

17:00-18:00: Piano Talks

21:00-23:00: The Fabulous Jazz Battle