PAST CONCERTS
2024
Tantalising Trios
The lovely sounds of baroque chamber music will return to Alberton on Sunday, 28 July. This special concert will feature Graham McPhail (violin), Yuhka Nagai (violin) and Helen Brinkman (cello) from NZ Barok performing trios sonatas by Leonarda, Telemann, LeClair, Corelli, and Handel. Previous concerts by NZ Barok have sold out due to the popularity of the performers and the limited number of seats available. 2 pm. $25pp (includes concert, look around house and tea service).
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: Come, Play Ruby May!
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May and her little brother Tāmati, two tamariki with big imaginations. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years. Book your free tickets today!
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: New Lynn Library and Community Centre, West Auckland, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Dame Jenny Gibbs, The Athena Trust, The Sutton family and Friends of NZ Barok.
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: A Magical Day with Ruby May!
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: New Lynn Library and Community Centre, West Auckland, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Dame Jenny Gibbs, The Athena Trust, The Sutton family and Friends of NZ Barok
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: Come, Play Ruby May!
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May and her little brother Tāmati, two tamariki with big imaginations. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years. Book your free tickets today!
NZ Barok would like to thank Te Manawa, The Trusts Community Foundation, Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Henderson-Massey Local Board, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Athena Trust, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters for their support of this event.
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: A Magical Day with Ruby May!
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years. Book your free tickets today!
NZ Barok would like to thank Te Manawa, The Trusts Community Foundation, Auckland Council Creative Communities, Henderson – Massey Local Board, MusicWorks, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Athena Trust, the Sutton Family and Friends of NZ Barok for their support of this event.
Cellomania! with cello virtuoso Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann
NZ Barok is thrilled to be joined by virtuoso baroque cellist Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann for a feast of cello concertos!
Programme
Vivaldi – Concerto for strings in C major RV 117
Vivaldi – Cello concerto in G major RV 413
Leo – Concerto for four violins and strings in D major
Leo – Cello concerto No. 4 in A major L.50
C.P.E. Bach – Cello concerto in A major Wq 172
NZ Barok thanks Dame Jenny Gibbs, Stout Trust (Perpetual Guardian), Four Winds Foundation and Friends of NZ Barok for their support.
Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann, is a virtuoso baroque cellist, soloist, and chamber musician, who has been described by Strad magazine as a musician who captivates audiences with a musicality that flows as naturally as breathing. In collaboration with NZ Barok, Mime showcases her mastery through the performance of three contrasting baroque cello concertos. The concert will transport listeners to the 18th-century splendors of Venice and Naples with Vivaldi and Leo concertos, while the CPE Bach concerto epitomizes the German ‘empfindsamer Stil’, with its turbulent changes of mood. This promises to be a concert that combines powerful music with an impressive display of performance artistry.
Having earned her performance diploma on the modern cello at the Toho Gakuen School of Music in Tokyo, Mime secured a scholarship from the Netherlands Art Council (Nuffic) to pursue her studies in historical performance on the cello and viola da gamba at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, the Netherlands. She graduated with a soloist diploma and received accolades such as winning the soloist prize at the Concours Musica Antiqua Brugge in Belgium.
Mime’s influence extends beyond the concert hall as she actively engages in the theatre world. Her innovative programmes, blending music with literature, dance, circus, light design, and pantomime, have garnered acclaim. Notably, her children’s show, ‘Hum hum Hume,’ performed at the Drottningholm Royal Palace Theatre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has enchanted over 2000 children.
Based in Sweden since 2003, Mime serves as a cello teacher at the Royal College of Music and conducts masterclasses globally. Her artistic endeavors are supported by a 10-year Art scholarship from the Swedish Arts Council. Additionally, in 2023, she received the prestigious ‘Bo Bringborn Music Award,’ recognising her creative excellence.
Captured through the lens of Mats Bäcker, Mime’s photos reflect her passion and dedication to the art form.
NZ Barok, a dynamic ensemble of leading baroque specialists from across New Zealand, breathes fresh life into baroque and classical masterpieces. Utilising period instruments and playing styles, they deliver authentic, classy, and spirited performances. They have been described as a revelation.
“A committed, passionate and cohesive sound of great quality, vitality and sensibility – a sound-fest ‘par excellence’!” Rainer Buhmann New Zealand Opera News, August 2023
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
Cellomania! with cello virtuoso Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann
NZ Barok is thrilled to be joined by virtuoso baroque cellist Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann for a feast of cello concertos!
Programme
Vivaldi – Concerto for strings in C major RV 117
Vivaldi – Cello concerto in G major RV 413
Leo – Concerto for four violins and strings in D major
Leo – Cello concerto No. 4 in A major L.50
C.P.E. Bach – Cello concerto in A major Wq 172
NZ Barok thanks Dame Jenny Gibbs, Stout Trust (Perpetual Guardian), Four Winds Foundation and Friends of NZ Barok for their support.
Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann, is a virtuoso baroque cellist, soloist, and chamber musician, who has been described by Strad magazine as a musician who captivates audiences with a musicality that flows as naturally as breathing. In collaboration with NZ Barok, Mime showcases her mastery through the performance of three contrasting baroque cello concertos. The concert will transport listeners to the 18th-century splendors of Venice and Naples with Vivaldi and Leo concertos, while the CPE Bach concerto epitomizes the German ‘empfindsamer Stil’, with its turbulent changes of mood. This promises to be a concert that combines powerful music with an impressive display of performance artistry.
Having earned her performance diploma on the modern cello at the Toho Gakuen School of Music in Tokyo, Mime secured a scholarship from the Netherlands Art Council (Nuffic) to pursue her studies in historical performance on the cello and viola da gamba at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, the Netherlands. She graduated with a soloist diploma and received accolades such as winning the soloist prize at the Concours Musica Antiqua Brugge in Belgium.
Mime’s influence extends beyond the concert hall as she actively engages in the theatre world. Her innovative programmes, blending music with literature, dance, circus, light design, and pantomime, have garnered acclaim. Notably, her children’s show, ‘Hum hum Hume,’ performed at the Drottningholm Royal Palace Theatre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has enchanted over 2000 children.
Based in Sweden since 2003, Mime serves as a cello teacher at the Royal College of Music and conducts masterclasses globally. Her artistic endeavors are supported by a 10-year Art scholarship from the Swedish Arts Council. Additionally, in 2023, she received the prestigious ‘Bo Bringborn Music Award,’ recognising her creative excellence.
Captured through the lens of Mats Bäcker, Mime’s photos reflect her passion and dedication to the art form.
NZ Barok, a dynamic ensemble of leading baroque specialists from across New Zealand, breathes fresh life into baroque and classical masterpieces. Utilising period instruments and playing styles, they deliver authentic, classy, and spirited performances. They have been described as a revelation.
“A committed, passionate and cohesive sound of great quality, vitality and sensibility – a sound-fest ‘par excellence’!” Rainer Buhmann New Zealand Opera News, August 2023
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
Cellomania! with cello virtuoso Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann
NZ Barok is thrilled to be joined by virtuoso baroque cellist Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann for a feast of cello concertos!
Programme
Vivaldi – Concerto for strings in C major RV 117
Vivaldi – Cello concerto in G major RV 413
Leo – Concerto for four violins and strings in D major
Leo – Cello concerto No. 4 in A major L.50
C.P.E. Bach – Cello concerto in A major Wq 172
NZ Barok thanks Dame Jenny Gibbs, Stout Trust (Perpetual Guardian), Four Winds Foundation and Friends of NZ Barok for their support.
Mime Yamahiro Brinkmann, is a virtuoso baroque cellist, soloist, and chamber musician, who has been described by Strad magazine as a musician who captivates audiences with a musicality that flows as naturally as breathing. In collaboration with NZ Barok, Mime showcases her mastery through the performance of three contrasting baroque cello concertos. The concert will transport listeners to the 18th-century splendors of Venice and Naples with Vivaldi and Leo concertos, while the CPE Bach concerto epitomizes the German ‘empfindsamer Stil’, with its turbulent changes of mood. This promises to be a concert that combines powerful music with an impressive display of performance artistry.
Having earned her performance diploma on the modern cello at the Toho Gakuen School of Music in Tokyo, Mime secured a scholarship from the Netherlands Art Council (Nuffic) to pursue her studies in historical performance on the cello and viola da gamba at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, the Netherlands. She graduated with a soloist diploma and received accolades such as winning the soloist prize at the Concours Musica Antiqua Brugge in Belgium.
Mime’s influence extends beyond the concert hall as she actively engages in the theatre world. Her innovative programmes, blending music with literature, dance, circus, light design, and pantomime, have garnered acclaim. Notably, her children’s show, ‘Hum hum Hume,’ performed at the Drottningholm Royal Palace Theatre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has enchanted over 2000 children.
Based in Sweden since 2003, Mime serves as a cello teacher at the Royal College of Music and conducts masterclasses globally. Her artistic endeavors are supported by a 10-year Art scholarship from the Swedish Arts Council. Additionally, in 2023, she received the prestigious ‘Bo Bringborn Music Award,’ recognising her creative excellence.
Captured through the lens of Mats Bäcker, Mime’s photos reflect her passion and dedication to the art form.
NZ Barok, a dynamic ensemble of leading baroque specialists from across New Zealand, breathes fresh life into baroque and classical masterpieces. Utilising period instruments and playing styles, they deliver authentic, classy, and spirited performances. They have been described as a revelation.
“A committed, passionate and cohesive sound of great quality, vitality and sensibility – a sound-fest ‘par excellence’!” Rainer Buhmann New Zealand Opera News, August 2023
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
Photos of Mime by Mats Bäcker
NZ Barok
Comprising leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand, NZ Barok performs using instruments and playing styles of the period, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces and lesser-known musical treasures from the 18th century.
“A committed, passionate and cohesive sound of great quality, vitality and sensibility – a sound-fest ‘par excellence’!” Rainer Buhmann New Zealand Opera News, August 2023
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
Winter Baroque Academy
Practical sessions on baroque instruments
Orchestral rehearsals and informal concert
Lectures and demonstrations
Instruments offered: violin, viola, cello and double bass
Contact Miranda Hutton miranda.hutton@nzbarok.org.nz to register your interest and see if this academy is the right fit for you! Aimed at professional and university level players (or advanced secondary school students), this workshop will equip participants with a thorough starting basis in baroque performance methodology and practice. Entry is by audition. Please submit a video of two short contrasting movements of a baroque work, performed on baroque or modern instrument. Submissions close on 31st May.
Winter Baroque Academy
Practical sessions on baroque instruments
Orchestral rehearsals and informal concert
Lectures and demonstrations
Instruments offered: violin, viola, cello and double bass
Contact Miranda Hutton miranda.hutton@nzbarok.org.nz to register your interest and see if this academy is the right fit for you! Aimed at professional and university level players (or advanced secondary school students), this workshop will equip participants with a thorough starting basis in baroque performance methodology and practice. Entry is by audition. Please submit a video of two short contrasting movements of a baroque work, performed on baroque or modern instrument. Submissions close on 31st May.
Winter Baroque Academy
Practical sessions on baroque instruments
Orchestral rehearsals and informal concert
Lectures and demonstrations
Instruments offered: violin, viola, cello and double bass
Contact Miranda Hutton miranda.hutton@nzbarok.org.nz to register your interest and see if this academy is the right fit for you! Aimed at professional and university level players (or advanced secondary school students), this workshop will equip participants with a thorough starting basis in baroque performance methodology and practice. Entry is by audition. Please submit a video of two short contrasting movements of a baroque work, performed on baroque or modern instrument. Submissions close on 31st May.
2023
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: Come, Play Ruby May!
08 July 2023
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May and her little brother Tamati, two tamariki with big imaginations. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank Te Tuhi, Howick Local Board, Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Athena Trust, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters for their support of this event.
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: A Magical Day with Ruby May!
08 July 2023
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank Te Tuhi, Howick Local Board, Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Athena Trust, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters for their support of this event.
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: Come, Play Ruby May!
07 July 2023
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May and her little brother Tamati, two tamariki with big imaginations. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank Te Manawa, The Trusts Community Foundation, Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Athena Trust, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters for their support of this event.
Baby Baroque Free Kids’ Concert: A Magical Day with Ruby May!
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank Te Manawa, The Trusts Community Foundation, Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Athena Trust, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters for their support of this event.
Hark, Sweet Music: Handel’s ‘Water Music’ and Purcell’s ‘Fairy-Queen’
Hark Sweet Music: Handel’s Water Music and Purcell’s Fairy Queen.
NZ Barok has three Auckland concerts coming up this May featuring two of the most beloved musical treasures from the Baroque in all their glory on baroque instruments, Handel’s Water Music and Purcell’s Fairy Queen. The orchestra comprises leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand performing with instruments and playing styles of the time, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces.
There will be a theatrical element to their performance of the music from Purcell’s sparkling Fairy Queen semi-opera. Violinist and NZ Barok’s co-artistic director Miranda Hutton has carefully selected parts of the work to produce what she describes as a spectacular and unique performance including music, singing, and spoken elements. Along with the NZ Barok strings, there will be recorders, trumpets, a bassoon, percussion, narrator Erin Atchison and talented New Zealand soprano Jayne Tankersley will join NZ Barok singing Purcell’s famous “Let me weep” alongside other evocative Purcell arias.
NZ Barok thanks Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, The Violin Workshop, Dame Jenny Gibbs and NZ Barok Supporters for their generous support of these concerts.
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
Hark, Sweet Music: Handel’s ‘Water Music’ and Purcell’s ‘Fairy-Queen’
Hark Sweet Music: Handel’s Water Music and Purcell’s Fairy Queen.
NZ Barok has three Auckland concerts coming up this May featuring two of the most beloved musical treasures from the Baroque in all their glory on baroque instruments, Handel’s Water Music and Purcell’s Fairy Queen. The orchestra comprises leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand performing with instruments and playing styles of the time, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces.
There will be a theatrical element to their performance of the music from Purcell’s sparkling Fairy Queen semi-opera. Violinist and NZ Barok’s co-artistic director Miranda Hutton has carefully selected parts of the work to produce what she describes as a spectacular and unique performance including music, singing, and spoken elements. Along with the NZ Barok strings, there will be recorders, trumpets, a bassoon, percussion, narrator Erin Atchison and talented New Zealand soprano Jayne Tankersley will join NZ Barok singing Purcell’s famous “Let me weep” alongside other evocative Purcell arias.
NZ Barok thanks Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, The Violin Workshop, Dame Jenny Gibbs and NZ Barok Supporters for their generous support of these concerts.
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
Hark, Sweet Music: Handel’s ‘Water Music’ and Purcell’s ‘Fairy-Queen’
Hark Sweet Music: Handel’s Water Music and Purcell’s Fairy Queen.
NZ Barok has three Auckland concerts coming up this May featuring two of the most beloved musical treasures from the Baroque in all their glory on baroque instruments, Handel’s Water Music and Purcell’s Fairy Queen. The orchestra comprises leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand performing with instruments and playing styles of the time, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces.
There will be a theatrical element to their performance of the music from Purcell’s sparkling Fairy Queen semi-opera. Violinist and NZ Barok’s co-artistic director Miranda Hutton has carefully selected parts of the work to produce what she describes as a spectacular and unique performance including music, singing, and spoken elements. Along with the NZ Barok strings, there will be recorders, trumpets, a bassoon, percussion, narrator Erin Atchison and talented New Zealand soprano Jayne Tankersley will join NZ Barok singing Purcell’s famous “Let me weep” alongside other evocative Purcell arias.
NZ Barok thanks Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, The Violin Workshop, Dame Jenny Gibbs and NZ Barok Supporters for their generous support of these concerts.
“… authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
2022
From Court to Cathedral: Music by Bach and Handel
This concert features music by the two giants of Baroque music, Bach and Handel.
NZ Barok opens the performance with elegant and spirited instrumental music for strings by Handel, including his Concerto Grosso Op.6 no. 1 in G and incidental music from his opera Il pastor fido (‘the faithful shepherd’). The orchestra will then be joined by violin soloist Lara Hall who will perform Bach’s soulful violin concerto in A minor.
The second half of the concert moves from the world of court instrumental music to the cathedral with Bach’s vibrant Mass in A major BWV 234. The orchestra is joined again by eight superb singers as they were for Vivaldi’s’ Gloria in May 2021: Jsopranos Jayne Tankersley and Elizabeth Mandeno, altos Jessica Wells and Helen Acheson, tenors Jack Timings and Sid Chand, and basses Chalium Poppy and James Harrison.
NZ Barok thanks Auckland Council – Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki Makaurau, Perpetual Guardian, Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Dragon Community Trust, and NZ Barok supporters for their generous support.
Comprising leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand, NZ Barok performs using instruments and playing styles of the period, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces and lesser-known musical treasures from the 18th century.
Recent Reviews:
“…authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
From Court to Cathedral: Music by Bach and Handel
This concert features music by the two giants of Baroque music, Bach and Handel.
NZ Barok opens the performance with elegant and spirited instrumental music for strings by Handel, including his Concerto Grosso Op.6 no. 1 in G and incidental music from his opera Il pastor fido (‘the faithful shepherd’). The orchestra will then be joined by violin soloist Lara Hall who will perform Bach’s soulful violin concerto in A minor.
The second half of the concert moves from the world of court instrumental music to the cathedral with Bach’s vibrant Mass in A major BWV 234. The orchestra is joined again by eight superb singers as they were for Vivaldi’s’ Gloria in May 2021: Jsopranos Jayne Tankersley and Elizabeth Mandeno, altos Jessica Wells and Helen Acheson, tenors Jack Timings and Sid Chand, and basses Chalium Poppy and James Harrison.
NZ Barok thanks Auckland Council – Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki Makaurau, Perpetual Guardian, Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Dragon Community Trust, and NZ Barok supporters for their generous support.
Comprising leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand, NZ Barok performs using instruments and playing styles of the period, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces and lesser-known musical treasures from the 18th century.
Recent Reviews:
“…authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
From Court to Cathedral: Music by Bach and Handel
This concert features music by the two giants of Baroque music, Bach and Handel.
NZ Barok opens the performance with elegant and spirited instrumental music for strings by Handel, including his Concerto Grosso Op.6 no. 1 in G and incidental music from his opera Il pastor fido (‘the faithful shepherd’). The orchestra will then be joined by violin soloist Lara Hall who will perform Bach’s soulful violin concerto in A minor.
The second half of the concert moves from the world of court instrumental music to the cathedral with Bach’s vibrant Mass in A major BWV 234. The orchestra is joined again by eight superb singers as they were for Vivaldi’s’ Gloria in May 2021: Jsopranos Jayne Tankersley and Elizabeth Mandeno, altos Jessica Wells and Helen Acheson, tenors Jack Timings and Sid Chand, and basses Chalium Poppy and James Harrison.
NZ Barok thanks Auckland Council – Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki Makaurau, Perpetual Guardian, Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Dragon Community Trust, and NZ Barok supporters for their generous support.
Comprising leading baroque specialists from all over New Zealand, NZ Barok performs using instruments and playing styles of the period, breathing fresh life and vitality into baroque and classical masterpieces and lesser-known musical treasures from the 18th century.
Recent Reviews:
“…authentic, classy and spirited performances… I certainly look forward to any future opportunities to hear NZ Barok.” – Tony Ryan, RNZ Concert
“NZ Barok are a revelation… the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance.” – Theatre Review
2021
Handel + Bach
June 13, 2021
Sunday 13th June – 2.30pm at All Saints Anglican Church, Matamata
A concert confection of joyful motets BWV 230 and BWV 231 from the undisputed giant of the German Baroque, J.S.Bach followed by G.F.Handel’s Chandos Anthems 8 and 9 .
Experience the composers’ command and control of harmony that produces such entrancing choral music.
Concert door cash only sales will also be available on event day. From 45 minutes prior to concert start time until sold out.
Handel + Bach
June 12, 2021
Saturday 12th June – 7.30pm at St. Mary’s Immaculate Church, Elizabeth street, Tauranga.
A concert confection of joyful motets BWV 230 and BWV 231 from the undisputed giant of the German Baroque, J.S.Bach followed by G.F.Handel’s Chandos Anthems 8 and 9 . Experience the composers’ command and control of harmony that produces such entrancing choral music.Concert door cash only sales will also be available on event day.
From 45 minutes prior to concert start time until sold out.
Baby Baroque Concert, GAPA, Hamilton
July 25, 2021
Sunday 25th July 2021, 2.30pm-3.30pm, Te Whare Tapere Iti, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts (GAPA), Hamilton
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May and her little brother Tamati, two tamariki with big imaginations. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: Creative Waikato, The Lion Foundation, GAPA, KBB Music, Westee’s Design, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters.
Baby Baroque Concert, GAPA, Hamilton
July 25, 2021
Sunday 25th July 2021, 10.30am-11.30am, Te Whare Tapere Iti, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts (GAPA), Hamilton
Check out our Baby Baroque Video!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years. NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: Creative Waikato, The Lion Foundation, GAPA, KBB Music, Westee’s Design, the Sutton Family and NZ Barok supporters.
Baby Baroque Concert! OMAC, Otara
July 24, 2021
Saturday 24th July, 2.30pm-3.30pm, Otara Music and Arts Centre (OMAC), Otara
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May and her little brother Tamati, two tamariki with big imaginations. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Otara Music and Arts Centre, The Athena Trust, Westee’s Design, KBB Music, NZ Barok supporters and the Sutton family.
Baby Baroque Concert Te Tuhi, Pakuranga, Auckland
July 24, 2021
Saturday 24th July 2021, 10.30am-11.30am, Te Tuhi, Pakuranga, Auckland
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years. NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: Auckland Council Regional Arts and Culture, Auckland Council Creative Communities NZ, Te Tuhi Arts Centre, The Athena Trust, Westee’s Design, KBB Music, NZ Barok supporters and the Sutton family.
Watch our Baby Baroque video!
Viva Vivaldi!
May 1, 2021
Dear 2020 subscribers and ticket holders. Your subscription and tickets are still valid for 2021.
Join NZ Barok in May 2021 as the full orchestra and guest vocalists create a sumptuous concert of Italian music by Corelli and Vivaldi including Vivaldi’s famous Gloria for voices, strings, and trumpets.
Featuring sopranos Jayne Tankersley and Rowena Simpson, altos Helen Acheson and Jessica Wells, tenors Jack Timings and Sid Chand and basses Chalium Poppy and Alex Matangi.
Saturday 1 May 2021 – 7.30pm St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
Sunday 2 May 2021 – 2.00pm St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
NZ Barok thanks Creative New Zealand Toi Aotearoa, Auckland Council, Dragon Community Trust, Pub Charity, Dame Jenny Gibbs and Anonymous for their generous support of NZ Baroks’ 2021 Subscription Series.
Beethoven Eroica Quintet premiere performance
March 13, 2021
Violins: Amelia Giles, Dr. Graham McPhail Violas: Wen Chuan Lin, Alison Salmons Cello :Helen Brinkman
A group of music librarians and musicologists are bringing #BTHVN2020 back to life with a world premiere workshop performance from a recently discovered manuscript of a Beethoven quintet arrangement.
Very little is known yet about the history of the manuscript itself. Experts from Beethoven-Haus in Bonn confirm that the handwriting does not match any known copyist or arranger from Vienna at that period. It is also not in Beethoven’s hand, although he was known to have taken a close interest in the production of arrangements of his music.
Dr Nancy November, from the University of Auckland’s School of Music, who has been editing the manuscript for the performance, describes the huge production of arrangements during this period as akin to spin-offs. “Arrangements of large-scale works like symphonies were highly popular in Beethoven’s day and an important means of disseminating music to a wide audience before the days of regular public concerts and before the era of the gramophone.”
Presented by Dr November, with players from NZ Barok, and the New Zealand Branch of the International Association of Music Libraries, (IAML NZ) one movement of this work was heard for the first time in 200 years at a music librarian’s conference at Auckland City Libraries in Nov 2020. This free public workshop and performance of the entire work is being sponsored by The Nicholas Tarling Charitable Trust.
2020
Corban Arts Estate Chamber Music Series: 4 – Quartets – Henderson
August 9, 2020
NB: Corban “4” Quartets that was originally on Sunday 29th March took place on Sunday 9th August at 2pm.
Old St. Michael’s Church, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson Auckland
Old St Michael’s Church in the Corban Estate provides an intimate setting with a perfect acoustic for a one-hour concert of elegant, easy listening classical music. Join NZ Barok musicians as they perform and talk about the music and the 18th century instruments they play. “If God wanted to speak to men through music, He would do it with the oeuvres of Haydn, but if He himself wished to listen to music, He would choose Boccherini” (Jean-Baptiste Cartier 1765-1841). Sparkling and elegant music by Mozart and Boccherini will delight in this programme of classical quartets. Join NZ Barok players Graham McPhail (violin), Amelia Giles (violin), Alison Salmons (viola) and Helen Brinkman (cello) with guest Sally Tibbles (flute).
2019
Handel’s Messiah – Tauranga
December 7, 2019
NZ Barok performed with Scholars Baroque Aotearoa chamber choir for their 5th annual performance of Handel’s Messiah! This baroque-inspired performance seeks to recreate Handel’s original sound for small chamber choir and orchestra and featured a stunning, all-new line up of New Zealand soloists:
Soprano: Greta Claringbould, Alto: Laura Funaki, Tenor: Jeandré Le Roux, Bass: James Harrison
7th December 2019, St Mary’s Catholic Church, Tauranga, 7:30pm
The Enchanted Forest – Takapuna and Remuera
November 8, 2019
Friday 8 November 2019 – 7.30pm
St George’s Presbyterian Church, 2 The Terrace, Takapuna, Auckland
Saturday 9 November 2019 – 7.30pm
St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
Sunday 10 November 2019 – 2.00pm
St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
What does Don Quixote fighting a windmill sound like? How did Biber write polytonality two centuries before it was invented? Hear the comic, the crazy, and the sublime in this programme of evocative baroque music.
NZ Barok presents an inspiring and unforgettable programme of descriptive music from the Baroque period. Baroque recorders, theorbo, baroque guitar and percussion will join the strings of NZ Barok to bring these pieces of musical genius to life in all their foot-tapping and astonishingly expressive glory.
NZ Barok thanks Four Winds Foundation, Pub Charity, Foundation North, Dragon Community Trust, The Wallace Arts Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs and The Stout Trust for their support.
Midwinter Melodies – Alberton
August 18, 2019
For this one-off concert, musicians Miranda Hutton, Janne Ensor, Wen Chuan Lin and Helen Brinkman will be joined by special guest soprano Rowena Simpson.
A Sunday afternoon outing for all ages, the concert will feature a sumptuous selection of music including Handel, Monteclair and Scarlatti. Tickets include drinks & canapes served from 4pm.
Beauty and Brilliance – Takapuna and Remuera
May 3, 2019
Friday 3 May 2019, 7.30pm – St. George’s Presbyterian Church, 2 The Terrace, Takapuna, Auckland
Saturday 4 May 2019 – 7.30pm – St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
Sunday 5 May 2019 – 2.00pm – St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
Hot on the heels of NZ Barok’s Mozart CD comes a programme of beautiful and brilliant classical music for strings. Join NZ Barok for the launch of our 15th Birthday concert with music from the Mozart dynasty, Stamitz, and Dittersdorf and featuring our very own double bassist Eric Scholes performing a concerto.
Orchestral musician, bassist and baroque specialist Eric Scholes returned to NZ after several years in the USA and Europe. Eric currently divides his time between performing with the Auckland Chamber Orchestra, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, Blackbird Ensemble and a nine-piece soul outfit Mister Speaker. Eric’s move towards historical double bass performance was sparked when he first began playing with NZ Barok in 2014 and was followed by studies in viola da gamba and violone in the USA, Canada, Italy and The Netherlands.
NZ Barok thanks Pub Charity, Auckland Council, The Four Winds Foundation, Dragon Community Trust, The Wallace Arts Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs and Stout Trust for their support
Baby Baroque Concert – Kaitaia
July 27, 2019
Saturday 27 July, 2.30-3.30pm, Te Ahu Centre Atrium, cnr South Rd and Matthews Ave, Kaitaia, Northland
Join NZ Barok and friends to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour.
This concert is suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
Limited free tickets will be available at the door!
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: Te Hiku Community Board, Foundation North, Te Ahu, Whina Te Whiu, The Wallace Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Name It Labels, Westee’s Design, MusicWorks, KBB Music, The Sutton Family, NZ Barok supporters.
Baby Baroque Concert – Kerikeri
July 27, 2019
Saturday 27 July 10.30-11.30AM Kerikeri Baptist Church, 41 Hobson Avenue, Kerikeri, Northland
NZ Barok and friends invite you to a free, fun, dynamic one hour concert especially for children!
Free Tickets will be available at the door!!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour.
This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: Foundation North, Kerikeri Baptist Church, The Wallace Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Name It Labels, Westee’s Design, MusicWorks, KBB Music, The Sutton Family, NZ Barok supporters and Anonymous.
Baby Baroque Concert – Otara
July 13, 2019
Saturday 13 July 2.30-3.30PM
Otara Music Arts Centre (OMAC), CNR of Newbury Street and bairds Rd, Otara, auckland
NZ Barok and friends invite you to a free, fun, dynamic one hour concert especially for children!
Join NZ Barok to hear the story of Ruby May, a little girl with a big imagination. Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour.
This concert is most suitable for children aged 0-6 years.
NZ Barok would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of this free event: The Southern Trust, Foundation North, Auckland Council, Otara/Papatoetoe Local Board, The Wallace Foundation, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Otara Music and Arts Centre, Name It Labels, Westee’s Design, MusicWorks, KBB Music, The Sutton Family, NZ Barok supporters.
Baby Baroque Concert – Manurewa
July 13, 2019
Baby Baroque Concert – Takapuna
July 12, 2019
Baby Baroque Concert – Remuera
July 12, 2019
2018 to 2004
Handel’s Messiah – Tauranga
November 24, 2018
St Mary Immaculate Elizabeth Street, Tauranga
Now an annual tradition, NZ Barok and the Scholars Pro Musica Choir conducted by Chalium Poppy present their much-anticipated performance of this seasonal favourite. This performance seeks to recreate Handel’s original sound for small chamber choir and chamber orchestra and will feature a fantastic line up of New Zealand soloists. Mr. Handel makes his annual appearance to conduct the Scholars and NZ Barok.
The Splendour of Venice – Auckland & Christchurch
October 5, 2018
Unlock the secrets of Venice!
Friday 5 October – 7.30pm St Peter’s Anglican Church, 11 Killarney Street, Takapuna, Auckland
Saturday 6 October – 7.30pm St. Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
Sunday 7 October – 2.00pm St. Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland
Tuesday 16 October – 7.30pm The Piano: Centre for Music and the Arts, Christchurch
Witness the verve, style, and fireworks of cello concerti by Vivaldi and Platti. Baroque cellist James Bush joins NZ Barok to take you on a trip to the magical world of Venetian baroque music.
Winner of the TVNZ Young Musicians Competition and the National Concerto Competition of New Zealand, James has worked regularly with many of Europe’s leading baroque orchestras including Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin, Concerto Köln and as principal cello of Al Ayre Español. He has also collaborated with renowned dance company Sasha Waltz and Guests, performing from the Bach cello suites in 50 performances worldwide of the work Gezeiten.
NZ Barok would like to thank Auckland Council, Foundation North, The Wallace Foundation, The Southern Trust, Four Winds Foundation and Dame Jenny Gibbs for their support.
NZ Barok would like to thank Christopher’s Classics and The Southern Trust for their support.
Crowns & Kings – Tauranga
August 25, 2018
Saturday 25th August 7.30pm – 9.00PM St Mary’s Catholic Church, Tauranga, Bay Of Plenty
The Scholars bring back NZ Barok for this performance of Handel’s “Dixit Dominus” and “Coronation Anthems” which bookend the great baroque master’s career. Written in 1707 while just a fearless student in Italy, “Dixit Dominus” is full of the energy, creativity and the vision of the young man. By contrast, the “Coronation Anthems” show the seasoned composer’s gift for grand ceremonial music. Written for the Coronation of George II, they constitute Handel’s first royal commission in England. So popular is the first anthem, “Zadok the Priest” that it has been performed at the coronation of every British monarch since its composition.
Melody & Musings – Alberton
July 29, 2018
Sunday 29th July, 4.30pm-6.00pm, ALBERTON
A midwinter treat! Step back in time at historic Alberton for this intimate afternoon soirée, suitable for the whole family, harking back to Alberton’s heyday when the house was alive with guests and music performed by family, friends and invited musicians. In the sumptuous Victorian ballroom, players from NZ Barok present an assortment of baroque musical gems with a touch of history in this light-hearted one hour concert.
Featuring music by Purcell, Vivaldi, Boyce, Sammartini and Bach, the programme has been curated with a general audience in mind and would be a lovely entrée for those unfamiliar with orchestral music. The players will introduce you to the Baroque style, its instruments and key composers, peppered with anecdotes from history. Refreshments will be served on arrival and tickets include entry to the house. Come along earlier to explore this fascinating homestead built in 1863. Children are welcome. Dress up and make an afternoon of it! The performers have generously donated their time in this fundraiser for Alberton and Heritage New Zealand.
Baby Baroque Concerts – Remuera & Takapuna
July 14, 2018
A free, fun, dynamic one hour concert especially for children!
Saturday 14 July 10.30-11.30am St. Luke’s Church, Remuera 2.30-3.30pm St Peter’s Anglican Church, Takapuna
Introduce the children in your lives to the beautiful sounds of baroque music! Join NZ Barok and friends for a free, fun, dynamic one hour concert especially for children. Wave a scarf to a minuet, shake a shaker to a march and enjoy a happy music-filled hour. The concert is aimed at children aged 0-6.
NZ Barok would like to thank Auckland Council, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, Dame Jenny Gibbs, The Sutton Family, Name It, The Violin Workshop, iTICKET, The Wallace Foundation and MusicWorks for their support of these FREE events.
Bach Unplugged – Remuera
May 5, 2018
Saturday 5 May – 7.30pm Sunday 6 May – 2.00pm St. Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
J.S.Bach (1685-1750)
Ouverture Nr. 3 in D major BWV 1068
Concerto for harpsichord and strings in d minor BWV 1052
Sinfonia for flute and strings from Cantata BWV 209
Aria from St Matthew Passion (BWV 224), Ebarme dich, mein Gott – Graham McPhail & Miranda Hutton, solo violins
Chorale from St Matthew Passion
Aria from St Matthew Passion Mache dich, mein Herze rein – Helen Brinkman – solo cello
Brandenburg Concerto Nr. 5 for harpsichord, flute, violin, and strings BWV 1050
NZ Barok wishes to thank the following sponsors for their support:
Stout Trust, Auckland Council, Foundation North, Pub Charity, Four Winds Foundation, The Wallace Foundation and Dame Jenny Gibbs
Music Encounter – Auckland Art Gallery
December 17, 2017
12.00 pm Noon Mackelvie gallery – mezzanine level Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki.
J Haydn, String Quartet Op. 1 No. 3 in D major
WA Mozart, Flute Quartet No. 3 in C Major
L Boccherini, String Quartet Op. 10 No. 2 in D minor
Highlights from Mozart’s “Magic Flute” in an original arrangement for flute quartet from 1799
Handel’s Messiah – Tauranga
December 2, 2017
St Mary’s Immaculate Church, Cameron Road/First Avenue, Tauranga
Conductor: Chalium Poppy Soprano: Gina Sanders Alto: Elisha Hulton Tenor: Iain Tetley Bass: Tavis Gravatt
Back by popular demand, Scholars Pro Musica presents Handel’s greatest oratorio and seasonal favourite, Messiah. A musical drama like no other, Messiah is famous the world over. No other choral work has received such wide acclaim and universal acceptance. A timeless masterpiece, Messiah demands something of all who hear it as we strive to make sense of the world in which we live.
Scholars Pro Musica is one of New Zealand’s leading baroque chamber choirs. Together with NZ Barok, New Zealand’s only professional baroque orchestra, they deliver a highly stylised performance of his work – the way Handel himself would have envisioned it.
NZ Barok wishes to thank Stout Trust for their support.
A Room with a View – Mt Eden
October 27, 2017
Mt Eden Village Centre Historic Church, Auckland
J Haydn, String Quartet Op. 1 No. 3 in D major
WA Mozart, Flute Quartet No. 3 in C Major
L Boccherini, String Quartet Op. 10 No. 2 in D minor
Highlights from Mozart’s “Magic Flute” in an original arrangement for flute quartet from 1799
Interviews
RNZ Concert FM Upbeat: The intimate setting of Chamber Music (26 Oct 2017)
New Zealand Business Review: Boutique chamber music festival in Mt Eden
Eden Arts
Spring in the Air – Remuera
September 9, 2017
St. Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
G Giacomelli Sinfonia in G major from Merope
A Vivaldi, Concerto in A minor for violin Op.3 Nr.6
A Corelli, Concerto Grosso in F major Op. 6 Nr.2
J S Bach, Concerto in E major for violin BWV 1042
A Vivaldi, Concerto in E major for violin, Spring, Op 8. Nr. 1
A Vivaldi, Concerto in A minor for two violins Op.3 Nr. 8
INTERVIEWS
RNZ Concert FM Upbeat: Spring in the air (Interview with Lucinda Moon) 4th September 2017
Under the Radar: Spring in the Air
Baroque Discovery
July 22, 2017
St. Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Join us for a free concert including Bach’s Air on a G string and Pachelbel’s Canon as well as works by Mozart, Corelli and Boyce. Come and find out more about our instruments and how and why we play them the way we do. Get up close and personal with NZ Barok. This one hour free concert will showcase our instruments, the special colours they make, and the beautiful music they create. The concert will be followed by a chance to talk to the musicians themselves and take a closer look at their instruments.
Autumn Notes – Remuera
May 6, 2017
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
GB Sammartini, Sinfonia in G major
CF Abel, Concerto in G major for flute (Knape 50)
WF Bach, Sinfonia in D Minor BR-WFB C7
FJ Haydn, Symphony Quintetto after Symphony No. 94 in G major ‘Surprise’,
arranged by JP Salomon for flute, strings and keyboard ad libitum (1798)
W Boyce, Symphony Op. 2 No. 1 in B flat major
Interviews
Stuff.co.nz: International flute player reunites with former teacher after 21 years (Hugh Collins 3 May 2017)
RNZ Concert FM Upbeat: Kiwi period flutist returns home (4 May 2017)
Galant Delights – Howick & Remuera
November 3, 2016
3 November, All Saints, Howick, Auckland
5-6 November, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
GB Sammartini, Overture for strings in F major (Op. 10 No. 5)
EF Dall’Abaco, Concerto grosso in D major (Op. 5 No. 6)
GB Sammartini, Concerto Grosso in A minor (Op. 5 No. 4)
MR de Lalande, “Les fontaines de Versailles” Chaconne
EF Dall’Abaco, Overture in B flat major (Op. 5 No. 6)
M Corrette, “Les Sauvages” Concerto Comique in G minor (No. 25)
UW van Wassenaer, Concerto Armonico in A major (No. 3)
GA Brescianello, Chaconne in A major
Interviews
The Big Idea: NZ Barok – Galant Delights
RNZ Concert FM Upbeat: NZ Barok to get Romantic & Classical conductor (2 November 2016)
Oreste (Opera in three acts by G. F. Handel) – Mercury Theatre
August 20, 2016
Mercury Theatre, Auckland
Directed by Benjamin Henson. Soloists Stephen Diaz, Rebecca Ryan, James Ioelu, Madison Nonoa, Filipe Manu, Kalauni Pouvalu.
NZ’s freshest young opera talent performed alongside veterans of the stage to present a fiery tale of sacrifice, danger, and triumph. First performed in 1734 at the Covent Garden Theatre, Handel’s rarely performed baroque “Oreste” opera is a tightly woven exploration of love and lust; a desperate search for sanity in a world built on fear; a bitter struggle between destiny and desire.
Magically saved from sacrifice at her own father’s knife, Iphigenia is bound to serve the goddess Diana on the island of Tauris under the tyrannical rule of a king living in fear. As the blood of all strangers must be cast over the island’s altar, fate brings Orestes, Iphigenia’s estranged brother, to its shores.
Handel’s “Oreste” was performed in a semi-staged production by the combined forces of the Auckland Opera Studio and NZ Barok orchestra. The instrumentalists of NZ Barok, New Zealand’s own original instrument baroque orchestra took to the stage of the Mercury Theatre alongside the vocal soloists to bring Handel’s score to life. Recitatives were sung in English and arias in Italian.
Reviews & interviews:
theatreview: A high standard of style and interpretation (Reviewer: Penny Dodd) 21 August 2016
“NZ Barok are a revelation to me, the distinctive sound of their authentic instruments in perfect balance with the ensemble. Oreste is a real highlight of the Operatic calendar for 2016.”
backtrack: Strong cast opens Handel’s Oreste in Auckland (Reviewer: Simon Holden) 21 August 2016
“…one appreciated the intimacy that came out of the small group and the continuo playing was consistently alert in recitative. Handel’s Oreste could hardly hoped for a better introduction to New Zealand and we can only hope the collaboration between Auckland Opera Studio and NZ Barok will bear fruit with further premières in the future.” 4 out of 5 stars
The NZ Herald: Endless flow of stunning arias (Reviewer: William Dart) 22 August 2016
“Auckland Opera Studio and its artistic director Frances Wilson should be very proud of giving Handel’s Oreste its New Zealand premiere.
…Henson’s compact, resourceful staging had the performing space flanked by the spirited strings of NZBarok.”
NBR: Rarely performed Handel opera on at Mercury Theatre
RNZ Concert FM Upbeat: An unlikely marriage 16 August 2016
The 13th Floor: Watch Liz Gunn Discuss Oreste with Frances Wilson & Benjamin Henson 15 August 2016
Cello Charms – Wellington & Auckland
August 5, 2016
5 August, St. Andrews on the Terrace, Wellington
6-7 August, St. Luke’s Church Remuera, Auckland
WA Mozart, Divertimento in F major (K138 Salzburg 1772)
WF Bach, Suite in G minor
CPE Bach, Symphony in E minor (Wq 177)
FJ Haydn, Cello Concerto in C major (Hoboken VIIb:1)
REviews, Interviews & Press coverage
Middle C: Diverting, accomplished, baroque concert from Auckland’s NZBarok on a cold night (Reviewer: Rosemary Collier) St. Andrew’s on The Terrace, Wellington, 5th August 2016.
(Haydn Cello Concerto in C major) “It was a very skillful performance; the brilliant playing in this work was not only from the soloist. It evoked a deservedly enthusiastic response from the largely young, and very attentive, audience. …a gratifying end to a fine concert.”
RNZ Concert FM Upbeat: Guest appearance with NZ Barok (Interview with Daniel Yeadon)
NZ Herald: Cello Charms
Voxy.co.nz: Cello Charms headed to Wellington and Auckland
Music for Frederick the Great – Remuera
April 30, 2016
St. Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
F Benda, Violin Concerto in A major
CH Graun, Flute Concerto in E minor (Willer 53, HenzelD:XIII:171)
J Pisendal, Violin Concerto in B flat major
JJ Quantz, Flute Concerto in G major (QV 5:174)
CPE Bach, Symphony in G major (Wq 182/1)
Handel’s Messiah – Tauranga
November 21, 2015
St Mary’s Catholic Church, Tauranga
Scholars Pro Musica, conductor Chalium Poppy, and soloists Jayne Tankersley, Stephen Diaz, Iain Tetley, Jonathan Eyers
Going for Baroque – Hamilton & Auckland
October 30, 2015
30 October, Te Whare Tapere Iti, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, The University of Waikato, Hamilton
31 October, 1 November, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Jonathan Besser, Predawn Meditation
Edward Huws Jones, The Violinists of the Pieta
Vivaldi, Concerto for strings in E minor RV 134
David Hamilton, Concerto Grosso no. 2
Jean-Fery Rebel, Les Elements
Vivaldi, Concerto for two cellos in G minor RV 531
Virtuoso Baroque – Hamilton & Auckland
July 31, 2015
1-2 August, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Recorded by Radio NZ Concert
JS Bach, Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G major BWV 1048
JS Bach, Concerto for Two Violins in D minor BWV 1043
A Vivaldi, Concerto for Violin in F minor L’Inverno Op. 8. No. 4 RV297
INTERVIEWS
NZ Herald: Journey back to the age of Bach “The sound filling the room seemed richer than that of string orchestras I’ve heard, and had a freshness and exuberance about it, as of something newly made.” (29 July 2015)
Radio NZ Concert FM Upbeat: Ryo Terakado and Miranda Hutton: NZ Barok (29 July 2015)
Appointment with Amadeus – Hamilton & Auckland
May 1, 2015
1 May, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, The University of Waikato, Hamilton
2-3 May, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
FX Richter, Sinfonia in A major (Riemann 69)
WA Mozart, Piano Concerto in F major K413
WA Mozart, Piano Concerto in C major K415
Anniversary Celebration – Hamilton & Auckland
October 31, 2014
G.F. Handel, Arias from Messiah
Telemann, Concerto for recorder and strings, C major
Quantz, Concerto for flute and strings, D major QV 5:45
G.F. Handel, Water Music Suite in F major
The Natural Horn – Hamilton & Auckland
August 1, 2014
1 August, Te Whare Tapere Iti, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, The University of Waikato, Hamilton
2-3 August, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
W.A. Mozart, Symphony no. 29 in A major, K 201/186a
W.A Mozart, Horn Concerto no 4 in E flat major, K 495
Joseph Haydn, Symphony no 44 in E minor, Trauer
Back to Baroque – Hamilton & Auckland
May 2, 2014
2 May, Te Whare Tapere Iti, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, The University of Waikato, Hamilton
3-4 May, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Geminiani, Concerto Grosso in D minor after Corelli op. 5 no.7
Charles Avison, Concerto in G major op. 6 no. 7
Vivaldi, A Concerto in D minor, op. 3 no. 11
Avison, Concerto in E minor, op. 6 no. 8
Handel, Concerto Grosso in F major op. 6 no. 9
Classical Masters – Auckland & Christchurch
November 2, 2013
2-3 November, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
5 November, St Michael’s and All Angels, Christchurch, as part of Christopher’s Classics
Music by W.A Mozart, Stamitz, Haydn, and Richter
Beyond the Baroque – Remuera
August 3, 2013
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
C.P.E. Bach, Sinfonia in C major, Wq 182
C.P.E Bach, Concerto for harpsichord and strings, Wq 23
W.A Mozart, Concerto for fortepiano and strings, K 414
W.A. Mozart, Divertimento: Eine kleine Nachtmusik
NZ Barok – The Nations – Remuera
May 4, 2013
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
William Boyce, Symphony no 1, B flat major
Brescianello, Sinfonia no. 1, D major
Telemann, Concerto for recorder and strings, G minor
Purcell, Incidental music from Abdelazer
Georg Muffat, Sonata no. 2, G minor from Armonico Tributo
Jean-Philippe Rameau, Suite from Les Indes Galantes
The Best of AK Barok – Remuera
November 3, 2012
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Favourite pieces including Bach’s Air, Pachelbel’s Canon, Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba and more…
AmoRoma – Remuera
August 4, 2012
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Handel, Caldara, Scarlatti, Lanciani and Bononcini arias, with Lauren Armishaw (soprano)
Corelli, Concerto grosso op.6, no.7, and Santa Beatrice Sinfonia
Viva Vivaldi! – Auckland & Taupo
May 5, 2012
5-6 May, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
13 May (Erupt Festival) St Andrew’s Church, Taupo,
Vivaldi, Four Seasons, Lara Hall (violin)
Zani, Cello concerto no. 9, B flat major, with Emma Goodbehere (cello)
Vivaldi, Ripieno concerti in A minor RV161 and C major RV114
Et resurrexit – Bach, Easter Oratorio – Parnell
April 15, 2012
Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, Auckland
Bach, Easter Oratorio, with the Graduate Choir, Terence Maskell (conductor) and soloists
Spring Strings – Howick & Remuera
October 27, 2011
27 October, All Saints Church, Howick, Auckland
29-30 October St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Vivaldi, Spring, from Four Seasons, and Concerto A minor, op.3 no.6
Brescianello, Sinfonia D major
Durante, Concerto for strings, A major
Geminiani/Corelli, Concerto grosso La Folia
Corelli, Concerto grosso op.6, no.4
The Feast of Saint Luke (Saint Luke’s day service) – Remuera
October 16, 2011
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Bach, Gavotte No.1 from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D major, BWV 1068
Handel, Largo in F major
Bach, Air from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D major, BWV 1068
Purcell, Rondeau from Abdelazer Suite
Vivaldi, Allegro from Concerto all rustica in G major, RV 151
AKB da camera – Remuera
August 7, 2011
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Telemann, Overture, A minor, and Vivaldi, Recorder concerto, G minor La notte,
Handel, Laudate pueri, F major and Arias from Delirio Amoroso and Semele
Baroque Banquet – Remuera
May 7, 2011
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Vivaldi and Bach, Concerti for oboe & violin
Locatelli, Concerto grosso, C minor, op.1 no.11
Campra, Suite from Tancrede Rebel, Tombeau de Monsieur Lully
Handel, Concerto grosso, A major, op.6 no.11
Andreas Scholl with Musica Sacra and AK Barok – Auckland Town Hall
March 29, 2011
Tuesday 29th March 2011, 8.00pm, Auckland Town Hall
Handel Coronation Anthem, Let thy hand be strengthened
Bach, Cantata 170, Vergnügte Ruh, beliebte Seelenlust
Handel, Arias, duets & choruses from Solomon, Rodelinda & Xerxes
Review of Andreas Scholl in concert with Musica Sacra and AK Barok (Reviewer: David Squire on RNZ Concert Upbeat Mon 5th April 2011)
“…a wonderful festive evening of fantastic baroque music performed very stylistically” ” AK Barok had a very, very important role…they kept it very simple which enabled Scholl’s voice to really come through” “…the whole concert was really well done…it was just a pleasure to be there.” “…wonderful playing from the baroque orchestra.”
In what was one of the most exciting musical events of 2011, superstar countertenor Andreas Scholl made his first appearance in New Zealand for a concert of music by Bach and Handel. The concert was presented by Musica Sacra in association with THE EDGE International Arts Season.
The programme included virtuoso countertenor arias from Handel’s operas Rodelinda and Xerxes, including the famous Ombra mai fù. In extracts from Handel’s oratorio Solomon, Scholl was joined by Musica Sacra and well known Wellington baroque soprano Pepe Becker for a thrilling selection of arias, duets and choruses, as well as The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba for orchestra; and Bach’s glorious Cantata 170 Vergnügte Ruh, for solo countertenor and orchestra, one of his greatest compositions.
Since his 1998 operatic debut at Glyndebourne in Handel’s Rodelinda, which won unprecedented praise from the British press, Andreas Scholl has consistently collected the top international awards for his many recordings and for his singing career. He appears in the world’s foremost festivals, opera houses and concert halls and has worked with the finest orchestras and conductors including Philippe Herreweghe, René Jacobs, William Christie and Sir John Eliot Gardiner. “Andreas Scholl has the world’s most cultured countertenor voice. And during his three Handel arias some 6000 people scarcely dared breathe.” – Richard Morrison in The Times (2005, reviewing the Last Night of the Proms).
Bachmania – Remuera
October 30, 2010
JS Bach, Suite no.2, B minor, BWV1067
JS Bach, Harpsichord concerto, A major, BWV1055
WF Bach, Suite, G minor
CPE Bach, Symphony, C major, Wq182
AK Barok da camera – Remuera
August 15, 2010
Haydn, Flute quartet op.5 no.1 and Divertimento HXI: 114
Carulli, Trio, op.9 no.1
Boccherini Guitar quintet, G453, C major
An English Concert – Remuera
May 1, 2010
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Avison/Scarlatti, Concerto 6, D major
Locke, The Tempest incidental music
Geminiani, Concerto grosso op.2, no.6, A major
Purcell, Music from King Arthur, with Nisha Madhan (narrator)
Heart and Strings – Remuera
October 31, 2009
Handel, Concerto grosso op.6, no.7 and Arias from Arminio
Heinichen, Concerto for oboe & flute, G minor
Bach, Cantata 199, Mein Herze schwimmt im Blut
AK Barok da camera – Remuera
August 9, 2009
Corelli, Trio sonatas
Viviani, Biber, and Monteclair Trumpet Sonatas with Peter Reid (trumpet)
Telemann, Concerti for 4 violins and Viola Concerto
Stamitz, Trio, with Yih-Hsin Huang (horn)
Janitsch, Sonata, with Sally Tibbles (flute)
Strings Italiana – Remuera
May 2, 2009
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Vivaldi, Ripieno concerti, C major RV114 and B minor RV169 al Santo Sepolcro
Corelli, Concerti grossi, op.6, nos.1 and 9
Wassenaer, Concerto Armonico no.1
Geminiani, Concerto grosso, op.3, no.3, E minor
Musica Sacra’s 10th Anniversary Concert – Parnell
November 15, 2008
Handel, Ode to Saint Cecilia with Pepe Becker (soprano)
Handel, Organ Concerto
Bach, Boyce and Beyond – Remuera
November 1, 2008
Boyce, Symphony no.1, B flat major
Vivaldi, Concerto for 2 oboes & strings, RV 535 with Adam Masters & Samantha Owens (oboes)
Rameau, Les Indes Galantes
Barok Contrasts – Remuera
May 3, 2008
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Purcell, Abdelazer, Chacony, and arias with Jayne Tankersley (soprano)
Bach, Brandenburg Concerto no.4 with Lara Hall (violin), Jessica Shaw & Kamala Bain (recorders)
Handel, Concerto grosso op.6, no.1, and Gloria with Jayne Tankersley (soprano)
The Grand Tour – Remuera & Hamilton
November 3, 2007
3 November, St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
4 November, St Peter’s Cathedral, Hamilton
Avison/Scarlatti, Concerto 5, D minor
Telemann, Musique de Table (Tafelmusik), E minor
Vivaldi, Violin concerto op.8, no.7, D minor
Rebel, Les Elemens
Concerto Connection – Remuera
May 5, 2007
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Corelli, Concerto grosso op.6, no.4
Handel, Concerto grosso op. 6, no.7
Bach, Harpsichord concerto F minor, with Douglas Mews (harpsichord)
Vivaldi, Violin concerto op.3 (L Estro Armonico), no.6, A minor, with Lara Hall (violin)
Christmas Treats – Remuera
December 2, 2006
Handel, Messiah excerpts with Morag Atchison (soprano)
Bach, Brandenburg Concerto no.3, G major
Corelli, Concerto grosso op.6 no.8 per la Notte di Natale
Musica Sacra Concert of the year – Parnell
August 26, 2006
Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, Auckland.
Music by Handel
A Feast of Concertos – Remuera
May 20, 2006
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Music by Telemann, Vivaldi, Blavet and Handel
AK Barok in Concert – Remuera
August 13, 2005
St Luke’s Church, Remuera, Auckland
Bendinelli Sonata, Corelli Sonata, Telemann Suite TWV55;D8, with Helen Barsby (trumpet), Peter Reid (trumpet), and Friedhelm May (timpani)
Vivaldi, Violin concerto, D major, Il grosso Mogul, with Nicola Drake (violin), and Sinfonia al Santo Sepolcro
Corelli, Concerto grosso, op.6, no.9
Geminiani, Concerto grosso, op.3, no.3.
Un Pomeriggio di Musica e Poesia Italiana – Auckland Central
November 27, 2004
Auckland Central City Library
Italian music and poetry, with the Società Dante Alighieri di Auckland, Karen Craig (reader)
Corelli, Concerto grosso op.6, no.9
Vivaldi, Violin concerto, G minor with Amelia Giles (violin)
Concerto for 2 cellos, G minor, with Helen Polglase and Margaret Cooke (cellos)
Handel arias, with Katie Giles (soprano)
Geminiani, Concerto grosso, op.3, no.3.
