The phenomenal Canadian pianist Louis Lortie returns to Music Toronto for his first appearance in decades with a fascinating program featuring the piano ballade. Popularized in the 19th century, the piano ballade is a single movement work that most often incorporates a dramatic narrative arch. The form is remarkably flexible so while there is a single genre on offer, the emotional depth and variety of the compositions and of Mr. Lortie’s performance will astound you. Mr. Lortie enjoys a remarkable international reputation as a recitalist and soloist with orchestras across the world. Don’t miss this opportunity to welcome him back to the intimacy of the Jane Mallett Theatre for the first time in a generation or more!