Well-loved Fringe stalwart Stefan Warzycki can play piano only with his left hand because he has focal dystonia – a movement disorder – in his right. An international concert pianist, this is undetectable with eyes closed because of flawless technique and remarkable dexterity. He swept through this challenging Romantic programme; the Romantic period is emotional, florid, full of pianistic declarations and drama – all this was present. Bortkiewicz’s ‘Epithalame’ was formally sonorous and in contrast Saint Saën’s ‘Études pour la main gauche seule, Op 135’ skipped lightly around the whole keyboard. Warzycki finished this lively concert with Godowsky’s ‘Study No 22 in C sharp minor on Chopin’s Études Op.10 No 12′ with instantly recognisable themes to cries of ‘Bravo!’ from the audience.

Edinburgh New Town Church, run ended.
tw rating 5/5 | [Louise Rodgers]