Steinway Indonesia proudly presented Universe in 88 Keys: A Recital by Dr. Martin Kesuma, held on Friday, 23 October 2026, at Hening Hall, Steinway Gallery Indonesia, Jakarta. The recital marked a significant milestone in Dr. Martin Kesuma’s musical journey, celebrating his official recognition as a Steinway Artist.

The evening brought together musical artistry, expressive interpretation, and a diverse programme exploring the piano’s many roles in music. From painting vivid musical landscapes to reflecting the sounds of the gamelan, accompanying the human voice, and conveying dramatic character, the recital showcased the piano’s remarkable versatility across different musical traditions and expressions.

 

Exploring the Universe of the Piano

The recital unfolded through six musical themes, each offering a distinct perspective on the piano’s expressive possibilities.

I. The Piano as a Painter

The programme opened with Claude Debussy’s La cathédrale engloutie, a work that evokes the imagery and atmosphere of a submerged cathedral through rich harmonies and evocative textures.

II. The Piano as Gamelan

The programme explored the relationship between the piano and Indonesian musical traditions through Jaya Suprana’s Tembang Alit and Levi Gunardi’s The Dancer, highlighting the piano’s ability to reflect distinctive musical colours and rhythmic character.

III. The Piano as a Partner

Featuring Richard Strauss’s Vier Lieder, Op. 27, with guest soprano Iva Khuang, this segment highlighted the piano’s role as a musical partner, supporting and enriching the expressive qualities of the human voice.

IV. The Piano as a Piano

Franz Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 10 brought the instrument’s technical brilliance and expressive range into focus, celebrating the virtuosity and individuality of solo piano performance.

V. The Piano as a Journey

Wayne Oquin’s Detours offered another perspective on the piano as a vehicle for musical exploration, inviting audiences to experience contrasting ideas and unexpected directions in sound.

VI. The Piano as an Actor

The programme concluded with Franz Liszt’s Mephisto Waltz No. 1, a dramatic work that demonstrates the piano’s ability to convey vivid character, theatrical energy, and intense musical expression.

Celebrating a New Steinway Artist

The recital also celebrated Dr. Martin Kesuma’s recognition as a Steinway Artist, joining a distinguished international 

 

DATE & LOCATION

Date : Friday, 23rd October 2026
Time : 19.00 - 22.00 WIB
Location : Hening Hall, Steinway Gallery Indonesia, Jakarta