Travel Through Time Chamber Series – Back to Romantic
Gabriel Baird – piano | Jonathan Tanner – violin | Tomáš Hurník – cello
Following the wonderful response to their recent concert of classical piano trios, Gabrial Baird, Jonathan Tanner and Tomáš Hurník return with an exquisite new programme celebrating the passion, beauty and drama of the Romantic era.
Their previous concert delighted audiences with its combination of elegance, wit, warmth and superb musicianship. Now the trio turns to two remarkable Romantic works, taking us on a journey from the lyrical world of Schubert to the expressive and richly melodic music of Czech composer Václav Jindřich Veit.
Franz Schubert
Piano Trio No. 2 in E-flat major, Op. 100, D. 929
Schubert's magnificent Second Piano Trio is one of the great masterpieces of the chamber-music repertoire. Written in 1827, during the final year of Schubert's life, it combines sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts, tenderness and extraordinary emotional depth.
The famous second movement has become one of Schubert's best-known melodies. Its hauntingly beautiful theme was famously used by Stanley Kubrick in his 1975 film Barry Lyndon, where it became an unforgettable part of the film's atmosphere. The movement has subsequently appeared in numerous films, including The Hunger, Crimson Tide, The Piano Teacher, The Mechanic, Miss Julie and The Congress.
Yet there is so much more to discover in this extraordinary work. From the expansive opening movement and graceful Scherzo to the exhilarating finale, Schubert creates a world of intimacy, lyricism, drama and breathtaking beauty. The Trio was one of the few major late works Schubert heard performed during his lifetime.
Václav Jindřich Veit
Piano Trio in D minor, Op. 53
Václav Jindřich Veit (1806–1864), also known as Wenzel Heinrich Veit, was a Czech composer, pianist and violinist whose music deserves to be heard far more often. His Piano Trio Op. 53 was composed around 1860 and was dedicated to the celebrated pianist Alexander Dreyschock. At its first Prague performance, a contemporary review praised its “original and charming ideas”, as well as its clarity and transparency, describing it as one of Veit's finest compositions.
Veit's music brings a distinctly Central European voice to the Romantic piano-trio tradition, making this a fascinating companion to Schubert's celebrated masterpiece.
An evening of Romantic beauty
Come and experience the remarkable intimacy of piano, violin and cello as three outstanding musicians bring these works to life. Expect beautiful melodies, sparkling interplay, humour, passion and moments of profound tenderness — all in the hands of musicians who clearly enjoy making music together.
If you loved their previous concert, this is a wonderful opportunity to hear this much-loved trio return with a programme that is both familiar and full of discovery.
Gabriel Baird – Piano
Christchurch-born pianist, bassoonist and composer Gabriel Baird is a University of Canterbury graduate and accomplished soloist and accompanist. He performs as Associate Principal Bassoon with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and works as a musical director and conductor.
Jonathan Tanner – Violin
Jonathan Tanner is Associate Principal First Violin of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and performs regularly with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. He holds a Master’s degree with top honours from Bern University of the Arts, Switzerland.
Tomáš Hurník – Cello
Tomáš Hurník has performed with Czech orchestras and leading period-instrument ensembles, including the Talich Chamber Orchestra, Musica Florea and Solamente Naturali. Based in New Zealand, he performs, organises concerts and leads workshops and masterclasses in Baroque music.
Back to Romantic — beautiful music, brilliant musicians, and an evening to remember.
Performances will take place in Timaru, Oamaru and Christchurch.
Door Sales Available, Cash Only.
