Chopin Recital
Hao Rao, piano
NCPA Classics — Debut Series
Chopin Recital marks a significant milestone in the artistic journey of pianist Hao Rao. Released by NCPA Classics as the first album of its “Debut” series, it is also Hao Rao’s debut album, presented as a special gift for his 18th birthday—a symbolic moment captured through music.
The album is a live recording of Hao Rao’s solo recital at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Beijing, preserving the immediacy and intensity of a young artist performing on one of China’s most important concert stages. Recorded in the NCPA Concert Hall, it documents a pivotal moment where youthful imagination meets artistic maturity.
Dedicated entirely to Frédéric Chopin, the program reflects Hao Rao’s deep affinity with the composer’s poetic language and architectural clarity. The repertoire spans large-scale works and intimate miniatures, from the monumental Third Piano Sonata and Andante spianato et Grande Polonaise brillante, to the introspective Mazurkas, the narrative power of the Ballade, and Chopin’s great dances—forming a carefully shaped portrait of the composer’s expressive world.
As part of the NCPA Classics “Debut” series, the album also presents a distinctive visual identity, featuring a poetic portrait by renowned photographer Pang Xiaowei (逄小威), capturing Hao Rao at the threshold of his artistic life. The album booklet includes a preface written by Professor Vivian Li (李穗荣), Hao Rao’s longtime teacher, offering personal insight into his musical growth and artistic character.
Following its release, Chopin Recital received wide acclaim and was awarded Best Piano Album of the Year, confirming both the artistic value of the recording and the remarkable promise of its young interpreter.
More than a document of a concert, Chopin Recital stands as a testament to youth, dedication, and artistic inheritance—an intimate and confident debut.
CD 1
Ballade No. 3 in A-flat major, Op. 47
3 Waltzes, Grande valse brillante, Op. 34
Andante spianato et Grande Polonaise brillante, Op. 22
4 Mazurkas, Op. 33
CD 2
Piano Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58
Claude Debussy: Rêverie, L. 68 (Encore)
Polonaise No. 6 in A-flat major, Op. 53 “Heroic”
Recorded live at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Beijing
