Moonlight Sonata by Candlelight

Event information

Step into a world of romantic elegance and poetic expression, as acclaimed pianist Ugnius Pauliukonis performs a spellbinding candlelit recital in the awe-inspiring setting of St Giles’ Cathedral—a landmark of history, beauty, and extraordinary acoustics at the heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

The evening begins with Beethoven’s “Moonlight” Sonata —one of the most beloved works in the piano repertoire, renowned for its haunting opening movement and dramatic finale. From there, Debussy’s shimmering Clair de lune casts its gentle glow, followed by Chopin’s powerful and virtuosic Scherzo No. 2 in B-flat minor, a work of sweeping passion and lyricism. The programme continues with two masterpieces by Liszt: the tender and expressive Sonetto del Petrarca 123, inspired by Petrarch’s poetry, and the electrifying Hungarian Rhapsody No. 12, bursting with drama, flair, and Hungarian folk spirit.

Performed on a brand new Steinway Model B Grand Piano, this is an evening of musical storytelling, depth, and grandeur—perfect for lovers of great piano music and unforgettable settings.

Featuring
Ugnius Pauliukonis (piano)

Programme
Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 No. 2 “Moonlight”
Debussy – Clair de lune
Chopin – Scherzo No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op. 31
Liszt – Sonetto del Petrarca No. 123 (from Années de pèlerinage, Deuxième année: Italie)
Liszt – Hungarian Rhapsody No. 12 in C-sharp minor, S.244

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.