Matinee at Bodega Macià Batle: Chopin Scherzi and Mendelssohn Trio on 30 November 2025

Small concert, big emotions: matinee among the vineyards

If you have nothing planned on the morning of Sunday, 30 November, leave some space in your calendar. The Bodega Macià Batle opens its doors for a matinee that goes straight to the heart, as detailed on the Matinee at Bodega Macià Batle: Chopin Scherzi and Mendelssohn Trio on 30 November 2025. I was there once last year: freshly brewed coffee, a little mist over the vines and a small group of listeners who listened devoutly, as described in the Intimes Cuarteto de cuerda en la Bodega: Apertura exitosa de los conciertos de otoño. This time Chopin's four Scherzi and Mendelssohn's Piano Trio in D minor, Op. 49 are on the program.

David Khrikuli sits at the piano — he is now known as one of the pianists who made a splash at the 2025 Chopin Competition in Warsaw. At his side are violinist Nina Heidenreich and cellist Raquel Rivera. Three musicians who play with technical precision but above all tell stories: soft, loud, cheeky, tender.

The Scherzi: more than just a joke

Chopin's Scherzi are not jokes in the usual sense. They often begin stormily, sweep you along, then dive into a suddenly conciliatory, almost forgotten moment. The four pieces show a spectrum from dark passion to surprisingly cheerful lightness — from dramatic outbursts to a transcendent, almost fairy-tale middle movement. Live, in a room that swallows the sound warmly, these contrasts feel even more intense.

Mendelssohn's Trio: a conversation of three voices

In the second half Mendelssohn's Piano Trio, Op. 49, is on the program — a piece often described as a precursor of modern chamber music. Here piano, violin and cello share the stage like good conversational partners: sometimes in dispute, sometimes in agreement, always with clear architecture. The Andante breathes songlike qualities; the Scherzo is sparkling, almost elfin, a small counterpoint to Chopin's mighty piano monologues.

Practical information: the concert starts in the morning (I expect a start around 11:30), the bodega is easy to find, and you can taste a sip of wine before or after the concert — if you like. Parking is available but limited; those who arrive early have better choice. And yes: don't forget a warm jacket, evenings are getting chilly now.

For sensitive ears and for anyone who likes classical music, it's a fine morning. No big opera stage, no flashy program booklet — just three instruments, a lot of feeling and the scent of wine in the air. I'm looking forward to meeting someone there who wants to step away from everyday life and sink into music instead.