The performance will be highlighted by Chopin’s masterwork, the 24 Preludes, which feature many of his most memorable melodies along with stunning dramatic outbursts.

The program opens with Chopin’s striking Bolero and continues with Brahms’ magnificent late set of 7 piano pieces, opus 116. Shorter works by Fauré, Ravel, and Debussy round out this varied program. Nies credits two of his great Polish teachers, Mieczyslaw Horszowski and Jakob Gimpel, for their inspiring connection to Chopin.

An esteemed member of the Blair piano faculty since 1991, Craig Nies is known for his superb technique, expressive range, and intellectual depth. His performances have ranged from his work with 10 Pulitzer Prize-winning composers to his solo recital series of Bach’s complete Well-tempered Clavier.

Nies holds degrees from the Curtis Institute of Music, Yale School of Music, and the State University of New York at Stony Brook.