Beethoven Piano Sonatas by Candlelight

Immerse yourself in an evening of profound beauty and romantic brilliance, as acclaimed pianist Ugnius Pauliukonis performs a stunning programme of Beethoven and Chopin in the candlelit splendour of St Giles’ Cathedral—the iconic heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

The concert opens with Beethoven’s fiery and dramatic Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 “Pathétique”, a work of bold contrasts and emotional depth. At the centre of the programme lie Chopin’s Nocturnes Op. 62, among his most refined and poetic late works—introspective, lyrical, and delicately expressive. The evening concludes with Beethoven’s radiant Sonata No. 30 in E major, Op. 109—a sublime meditation on beauty, serenity, and transcendence.

Performed on a brand new Steinway Model B Grand Piano, this candlelit recital offers a rare opportunity to experience two of the greatest composers of the Romantic and Classical eras in a setting of spiritual and acoustic grandeur.

Programme

Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 “Pathétique”

Chopin – 2 Nocturnes, Op. 62

Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 30 in E major, Op. 109

About the pianist

Ugnius Pauliukonis is an award-winning pianist, educator, and curator known for his imaginative interpretations and bold artistic vision. As a classical soloist, he has performed with leading orchestras including the BBC Philharmonic, Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, and Kaunas State Symphony Orchestra, and appeared at prestigious venues such as Wigmore Hall, Bridgewater Hall, Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, and the Lithuanian National Philharmonic. Ugnius is also the creative force behind SONO ensemble, a genre-defying chamber group dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional concert performance. Whether interpreting the great masters or exploring contemporary soundscapes, Ugnius brings curiosity, colour, and emotional depth to everything he plays.