The Aurum Trio is a collection of extraordinary artists who have collaborated with many different ensembles individually. They now bring their talents together to perform for Motueka.
The concert programme has some pieces where they play together and then others for just the cello and harp, flute and harp, or flute and cello. We all need to hear a harp play in the Chanel, with the old stonework and wood buttresses of the church above and around you, just close your eyes and you’re transported back in time. It is magical.
The trio will play pieces from composers across three centuries. Bizet, Kronke, and Debussy represent the 19th century with a piece by the latter called Reverie where the harp and flute have a delicate chat together.
The 20th century involves composers such as Ravel, Villa-Lobos and Berthomieu. I know some exxperts will know they were born in the 1800s but most of their composition dates are in the 1900s. Finally there is one piece by Anthony Ritchie, a NZ composer, which was commissioned in 2024.
Barbara Hill is an accomplished flautist who spent most of her life in Berlin. She has had an extensive and successful career as an orchestral and chamber musician, a teacher and ensemble coach, and a soloist on international tours.
From 2011 to 2018 she travelled to China as the solo flute on orchestral tours. Several composers have dedicated flute compositions to her.
Robert Ibell and Michelle Velvin are based in Wellington. Robert has played with the New Zealand Symphony orchestra and Michelle with the Wellington Symphony Orchestras
The Chanel Arts Centre is one of the best places to hear a trio. All artists compliment the acoustics of the Centre after their performances and love the intimacy of the venue, often telling stories about pieces or their collaboration. It feels like a conversation between audience and artists so do come along and become a part of it.
Motueka Arts Centre, Thursday, 24 April at 7.30pm. Tickets $25 adults, $5 children.
Tickets available from: Motueka Floral Studio (Cash), Door Sales (cash & EFTPOS)
