There was a palpable sense of excitement when Chinese pianist Zee Zee stepped foot into Esplanade—after all, she was one of the first few international artists back at the centre after a little over two years. The virtuoso was exuberant and outspoken, excited by the novelty of performing in a cargo lift. 

Yet, her mood noticeably shifted the moment the lights went down. Intensely focused, she presented Maurice Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit, I. Ondine with equal parts dramatic force and nuanced expressions. She later presented the full work on the Concert Hall stage as part of her performances on 23 and 24 Jan for Esplanade’s Classics.

Video and audio: Made by Identity.