NZTrio: States of Mind

NZTrio reveals their customarily eclectic mix of repertoire, old and new, familiar and fresh, energetic and ethereal. The concert opens with American composer Kenji Bunch's rhythmic Groovebox, capturing the essence of New York City between dusk & dawn, before exploring the process of changing physical states essential to the production of mid-century art glass with New Zealander Rachel Clement's Shifting States. The first half ends with Schnittke's Trio, leading us to a furious moment of catharsis and then sublimating into thin air. The second half begins with Australian composer Stuart Greenbaum's The year without a summer, evoking the 1815 volcanic eruption of Mt Tambora in Indonesia and contemplating the resulting upheaval for the community there, before Brahms treats us to moments of darkness and restless unease, bringing his Piano Trio No.3 in C minor to a close with an energetic and impassioned finale.

Described as a “national treasure” and “New Zealand’s most indispensable ensemble” (William Dart, NZ Herald), NZTrio is renowned for its eclectic repertoire, outstanding talent and warm kiwi stage presence. Any preconceptions of classical music being stuffy or intimidating are smashed by edgy repertoire, venue ambiance, and post-concert manaakitanga. Bringing together three incredibly accomplished artists: Amalia Hall (violin), Ashley Brown (cello) and Somi Kim (piano), every NZTrio performance powerfully reaffirms the importance and cathartic nature of a live musical experience in today’s digital world. Expect to be affected.

The Programme
Kenji Bunch “Groovebox Variations” (6’)
Rachel Clement (NZ) “Shifting States” (2005) (12’)
Alfred Schnittke Piano Trio (26’)
-Interval-
Stuart Greenbaum “The year without a summer” (18’45)
Johannes Brahms Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor Op. 101 (22’)