LEWISBURG W.Va. (WVDN) — As part of the Lewisburg Winter Music Festival, acclaimed pianist Barbara Nissman, joined by special guests cellist Sam Magill and violinist Russell Fallstad, delivered a breathtaking performance of “More Beethoven, The Great” at Carnegie Hall on Saturday evening, Jan. 25, 2025. The concert showcased some of Beethoven’s most celebrated works and drew an enthusiastic crowd eager to immerse themselves in the genius of the iconic composer.
The evening’s program featured a carefully curated selection of Beethoven’s masterpieces, including the electrifying Rondo a Capriccio, Op. 129, famously known as “Rage Over the Lost Penny,” the emotionally charged Sonata No. 8, “Pathétique”, and the grand Piano Trio in Bb major, Op. 97, also known as “The Archduke.” Each piece demonstrated Beethoven’s unparalleled range, from lighthearted playfulness to profound depth.
For violinist Russell Fallstad, this performance marked a significant milestone—his first return to playing professional chamber music in more than 15 years. Reflecting on the experience, Fallstad shared, “Between the three of us who performed together at Carnegie Hall, I’m guessing we’ve performed most of Beethoven’s music. Beethoven wrote about 175 total hours of music for various instruments, including symphonies, chamber music, and solo piano pieces.”
Despite the long hiatus, Fallstad’s performance exuded passion and precision, revealing the meticulous preparation that went into his return. “I hadn’t played professional chamber music in concert in 15 years,” Fallstad explained. “I was focusing on rock violin and developing teaching models. Preparing for this concert took a lot of work—I had to build up the necessary small muscles and mental stamina. But since I practiced heavily from the ages of 5 through 40, the skills are still in there!”
Nissman, widely celebrated as one of Beethoven’s foremost interpreters, delivered a masterful performance on the piano, anchoring the trio with her commanding presence and virtuosity. Cellist Sam Magill’s rich, resonant tone added depth and balance, perfectly complementing Fallstad’s dynamic violin work. Together, the trio displayed remarkable synergy, bringing Beethoven’s compositions to life with a freshness and energy that captivated the audience.
The concert was a testament to the timeless appeal of Beethoven’s music and the extraordinary talent of the performers. The audience responded with multiple standing ovations, their enthusiasm underscoring the significance of the evening. It was a moment of triumph for the Lewisburg Winter Music Festival, which brought world-class performers to the heart of Greenbrier County.
Saturday’s performance not only celebrated Beethoven’s enduring legacy but also highlighted the unique journeys of the artists on stage. For Fallstad, it was a poignant reminder of the power of music to reconnect with one’s roots, while for Nissman and Magill, it was another chapter in their storied careers of bringing classical music to audiences worldwide.
