On May 9th, at Carnegie Hall, the renowned Brazilian pianist and conductor João Carlos Martins will give his farewell concert in New York. Despite his focal dystonia (a rare disease affecting pianists), he will conduct in the first half and play piano in the second half using his bionic gloves. It will be an unforgettable night.
The New York Times wrote, “one of the world’s leading pianists” and “despite much adversity, keeping the music alive”. The New Yorker called him “a musical hero.”
Who is João Carlos Martins?
João Carlos Martins is a renowned Brazilian pianist, conductor, and composer, widely celebrated for his extraordinary musical talent and resilience. Born on March 25, 1948, in São Paulo, Brazil, he gained international recognition as one of the most brilliant classical pianists of his generation.
Martins made his debut as a pianist at a young age and quickly earned a reputation for his virtuosity and ability to interpret classical repertoire with passion and precision. His playing was particularly admired for his interpretations of works by composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven.
However, his career was marked by several challenges. In the 1990s, João Carlos Martins began to experience health issues, including a series of injuries to his hands and fingers, which severely limited his ability to perform. Despite these setbacks, he continued to pursue music, adapting his approach to piano playing and even using alternative techniques to overcome his physical limitations.
In addition to his career as a pianist, Martins has been involved in music education and conducting. He has worked with various orchestras and has been deeply involved in the musical scene in Brazil, fostering a new generation of musicians. His resilience in the face of adversity has made him an inspirational figure in the classical music world.
João Carlos Martins is not only known for his artistic achievements but also for his contributions to the cultural life of Brazil, often performing and advocating for music programs that reach underserved communities. His life and career stand as a testament to his love of music and his determination to continue sharing it despite personal hardships.
Performers
João Carlos Martins, Conductor and Piano
NOVUS
Edson Beltrami, Conductor
Program
J. S. BACH Orchestral Suite No. 3
VILLA-LOBOS Prelúdio from Bachianas brasileiras No. 4
VILLA-LOBOS Fuga from Bachianas brasileiras No. 7
JOBIM “Luíza”
JOBIM “Eu Sei Que Vou Te Amar”
JOBIM “Insensatez”
PIAZZOLLA Libertango
PIAZZOLLA Adiós Nonino
JOHN WILLIAMS Theme from Schindler’s List
JOHN WILLIAMS “Flying Theme” from E.T.
MORRICONE “Playing Love”
MORRICONE “Gabriel’s Oboe”
MORRICONE “Cinema Paradiso”
When: Friday, May 9, 2025 7:30 PM
Where: Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall
For additional information on ticket availability, or assistance with your order, contact CarnegieCharge at 212-247-7800 or visit: https://www.carnegiehall.org/calendar/2025/05/09/joao-carlos-martins-conductor-and-piano-novus-0730pm