Following its acclaimed debut in 2024, the prestigious Edinburgh International Royal Mile Piano Series returns with a complete cycle of Beethoven’s 32 Piano Sonatas, performed across the 2025–26 season. Showcasing exceptional talent from leading UK and international pianists, each recital offers a unique perspective on some of the most profound and beloved works in the piano repertoire.
Set against the magnificent backdrop of St Giles’ Cathedral — illuminated by candlelight and enhanced by a newly installed Steinway grand piano — these concerts promise an unforgettable musical experience at the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Featuring
Phillip James Leslie (piano)
Programme
BEETHOVEN - Piano Sonata No. 31 in A-flat major, Op. 110
DEBUSSY - Preludes Book 1
III. Le vent dans la plaine
IV. «Les sons et les parfums tournent dans l'air du soir»
VI. Des pas sur la neige
VII. Ce qu'a vu le vent d'ouest
CHOPIN - Ballade No. 3 in Ab major Op. 47
BARTOK - Piano Sonata Sz.80
I. Allegro Moderato
II. Sostenuto e pesante
III. Allegro Molto
About
Praised for his sense “culture and refinement” by the Liszt Society, British pianist Phillip Leslie is a thought- provoking artist and has received considerable acclaim for his performances across the UK and Europe. He has been described by ESM as a “tour-de-force” and his recent concert engagements include the Teatro Marcello, Steinway Hall, St John’s Smith Square, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Castellon Auditorio & the Wigmore Hall.Named a Park Lane Group Artist (alumni include John Ogdon & Jacqueline du Pré) in 2018, he made his Southbank Centre debut as part of Southbank International Festival in 2019 in a program of works by Knussen & Boulez. A champion of British repertoire and contemporary music, Phillip has performed works by Kenneth Leighton on BBC Radio and given numerous world premiere performances. In October 2022 he will give a pre BBC Philharmonic duo recital at the Bridgwater Hall of works by Ruth Gipps. He will release his debut album of William Baines’s piano music in 2023 following his centenary year. Festival appearances include the Southbank, Endellion & Perth annual music festivals. He was named one of the Cross Trust’s ‘Artist of the year’ in 2022.
