Tuesday 28th November, Concert Chamber, Rotorua Convention Centre.

Last night's audience at the Concert Chamber heard splendid performances by three musicians from a recently formed ensemble, the New Zealand Chamber Soloists. Polished and spirited playing by pianist Katherine Austin, violinist Lara Hall and cellist James Tennant suggested that the new group will be a force in this country's classical music scene.

Haydn's Piano Trio No. 25 which opened the concert suffered from tonal problems in the first movement. The players then made a fine recovery, producing an engaging grace in the slow second movement and exuberance in the 'Gypsy Rondo' finale.

Cello and violin then combined for Kodaly's Duo Op. 7, a work of emotional power and driving rhythms. The two instruments made a striking contrast with the resonant cello set against the robust vigour of the violin.

In Debussy's Sonata for Violin and Piano Lara Hall was very sensitive to the composer's nuances and Katherine Austin's playing had its usual clarity and colour.

A surprise in the programme was an intense and haunting Piano Trio by the little-known 20th C. Armenian composer Babadjanian. The three players gave a gripping performance of a work in which moods ranged from Russian introspection to fierce anger.

H.S.F.
Rotorua Daily Post