ludwig lives 2027

To mark the 200th anniversary of the death of composer Ludwig van Beethoven in 2027, a series of concerts, exhibitions, film projects, lectures and events, as well as festivals, are planned worldwide. Local Madison musicians Jess Salek and Mickey Lytle have planned a 12-month concert series to showcase community pianists, including students, teachers, and adult hobbyists alike, who are dedicated and excited to participate in a community-driven series. The anniversary year will begin in January 2027 and signups are available now.


CONCERT DATES (all Saturdays):

  • January 16 @ 4pm
  • February 20 @ 4pm
  • March 13 @ 4pm
  • April 10 @ 7pm
  • May 15 @ 4pm
  • June 12 @ 4pm
  • July 17 @ 4pm
  • August 21 @ 7pm
  • September 18 @ 4pm
  • October 16 @ 4pm
  • November 13 @ 4pm
  • December 11 @ 7pm
Sign Up Form


The google form will ask for your name, email, phone number, teacher, piece, timing, date choice, and any specific comments related to the performance. The deadline to sign up is two months before each concert. In the case of duplicate repertoire, the performer registered second will be asked to choose an alternate concert date.

We welcome individual performers prepared to play Beethoven Sonatas, Concerti (second pianist must be provided by the performer), Bagatelles, or other major piano works.
While the primary focus is on advanced works, performances of intermediate repertoire are also welcome, namely Dances, Minuets, and such. Magrath Level 7 and up. Contact Jess Salek  for questions about appropriate level.


We invite teachers and students to collaborate as teams. Each team will perform an entire Sonata, with different pianists playing the different movements. Studios and individual musicians are also encouraged to form teams to combine players on multi-movement pieces throughout the entire community. Here’s a  LUDWIG LIVES 2027 POSTER PDF to hang in your studio or use the jpg at the bottom of the web page if you prefer that format.

The concerts will take place in the Grand Hall of Capitol Lakes Retirement Community, 333 W. Main St., Madison, WI. We are indebted to Capitol Lakes for graciously hosting this concert series for their residents and the public. Park in front of the Main Street entrance or the Main Street parking ramp. If you need to take a ticket in the ramp it can be validated at the Capitol Lakes front desk.