Austrian harpist Elisabeth Plank returns to the stage in March for her first concert in a year. Twelve full months away from the stage is a reality for many musicians today that would have been unfathomable prior to the coronavirus pandemic. Plank is a featured artist in an online concert series titled Kovacics Entdeckungen (Kovacic’s Discoveries), presented by legendary violinist Ernst Kovacic from Austria’s Radiokulturhaus. Kovacic’s series showcases various artists across Europe. Plank’s concert features quintessential French harp solo and chamber works. The livestreamed performance takes place on Friday, March 12, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. CET. We caught up with Plank to learn more about her performance.
Tell us about the concert series. What type of music will you be performing?
In every concert, legendary violinist Ernst Kovacic presents selected artists from various perspectives. I have been chosen as an artist for this specific concert, so it is about presenting me, my achievements as a performer, and my instrument. To showcase the harp, I will perform solo repertoire and chamber music by Caplet, Debussy, and Ravel. Also featured on this concert, duo Soyka & Stirner will perform Viennese music with a modern twist on zither and accordion.
Do you have a favorite piece on the program?
My favorite piece on the program is definitely Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro. To me, it represents the quintessential harp sound.
Who are some of the artists you’re collaborating with?
I will be joined by the Artel Quartet, flutist Eva-Maria Fandl, and clarinetist Petra Liedauer.
How did you choose the repertoire for this performance?
I wanted to choose pieces that I enjoy playing and that showcase various characters and sounds on the harp. At the same time, I didn’t want a random selection of music, which is why I chose this “French trio.”
How can listeners stream the concert?
On the day of the concert, the livestream can be found here. If you aren’t able to tune in to the live broadcast, it will be presented on Austrian National Radio as well later this year.
Do you have any other upcoming projects that you’re looking forward to?
I am keeping my fingers crossed! Live performances with an audience are currently not allowed in Austria. Hopefully, live performances will be possible later this spring, but this, of course, depends on further developments with the pandemic. If concerts are allowed by then, I am very much looking forward to performing as a soloist with Wiener KammerOrchester in April at the Wiener Konzerthaus.
This is my first concert since October 2020 due to various lockdowns, so I am very excited I am finally back on stage, and I am very happy that the livestream gives me the opportunity to share this moment with people around the world!
Tune in to Plank’s performance on March 12. For more information about Plank, visit her website.
