Review Roundup: Harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani at 92Y

Appearing in his 92Y debut was Iranian-American harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani. Named BBC Music magazine's 2015 Newcomer of the Year, Mr. Esfahani has traveled the globe, from Boston to Beijing, working tirelessly to prove that harpsichord is an instrument for today, not only relevant but even revolutionary. His concerts often juxtapose early music with works that are modern (even avant-garde), prompting cheers and jeers. His 92Y recital ranges from the English Renaissance to a new version of Steve Reich's Piano Phase, sanctioned by Reich himself.

Let's see what the critics had to say:

JAMES R. OESTREICH, NY Times: He routinely challenges audiences with, say, half a program of more or less contemporary music, as he did in the small Buttenwieser Hall at the 92nd Street Y on Tuesday night. At every opportunity he bashes what he calls, in a program note, "the self-segregated realm of early music." And whatever uproar may ensue, Mr. Esfahani will probably not shy away.

George Grella, NY Classical Review: Esfahani has a fluid technique and a light touch that limits the percussive harshness of the instrument. He opened with a short medley of Thomas Tompkins' Pavan in A, and Woody-Cock by Giles Farnaby, and everything was smooth musicality. The Pavan was rhythmically expressive, yet Esfahani always maintained a steady dance pulse in either his right or left hand, while playing with notable freedom in the other.