French lineages — Pierre-Laurent Aimard + George Benjamin

Composer and master pianist, friends for life, in a visionary programme

Pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard and composer George Benjamin have been close friends ever since the 1970s, when they studied together under Olivier Messiaen in Paris. In this special programme featuring two Dutch premieres, they connect their shared history with visionary music: Benjamin’s Divisions and Shadowlines, Lacôte’s Cahier de filigranes, Obukhov’s rarely heard Révélation and Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit.

Aimard is a leading advocate of the modern repertoire, and Benjamin ranks as one of today’s most important composers. The French composer Thomas Lacôte serves as organist at the Église de la Trinité, the very church where Messiaen held the post of resident organist for decades – a historical lineage that subtly weaves through this programme. Alongside Ravel, Obukhov emerges as a fascinating discovery: an evening of refinement, mysticism and unprecedented pianistic intensity. 

Focus on Pierre-Laurent Aimard 2026/2027
Explore all the concerts by clicking here and listen to the playlist below ⬇️