The Folly of Desire

Jazz pianist Brad Mehldau, together with tenor Ian Bostridge, presents The Folly of Desire, his song cycle about the limits of sexual freedom in a post-MeToo era. The music flows seamlessly between jazz and classical styles. With poetry by Blake, Yeats, Shakespeare, Brecht, Goethe, Auden and Cummings, the work explores a theme as timeless as it is topical. Bostridge sings of romantic love in Schumann's Dichterliebe, 16 songs in which the newlywed composer expresses his happiness with Clara. One of the greatest lieder performers and one of the most sought-after and renowned jazz pianists of our time share the stage. Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist Brad Mehldau has been captivating audiences since the early 1990s with his dynamic talent, intense performances and surprising collaborations. Tenor Ian Bostridge has a voice that is instantly recognisable. Like no other, he always delves into the context of what he is singing.