T A L I S A B L A C K M A N, P I A N I S T
Blackman opened the program with a virtuosic performance of Chopin's Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58.
Blackman is an established performer who has played with Orchestras across Canada, the U.S.A. and Russia.
Her performance of this last great sonata by Chopin was a wonderful demonstration of the skill that has already put her in demand.
From the tumultuous chromaticism of the first movement, to the effervescent runs in the Scherzo, the sensuous melancholy of the Largo to the whirlwind excitement of the Finale, her playing was poised and poetic.
Sandra Ruttan, The Barrie Examiner, Barrie, May 7th, 2015
The incredible Piano Concerto in G followed, with NRO pianist Talisa Blackman. Talisa captured the amazing energy of the outer movements as well as the warmth and tenderness of the second movement. Her facile technique was matched by her outstanding emotional involvement.
Carl Topilow, The Official Blog of the National Repertory Orchestra, Colorado, July 12th, 2011