Classical Expressions 2021: Les Voisins French Baroque

A classical trio, traversing the music of France from the tender kernel of the French Baroque, through the vibrant colours of impressionism, and into the swinging jazz Hot Club de France—with a New Zealand composer’s personal imaginings adding extra spice to the mix. Les Voisins (translated - neighbours) is a coming together of worlds, neighbours and friends.

Violinist Justine Cormack and cellist James Bush grew up next door to each other in Christchurch and have remained close friends throughout their diverse careers. Ever the innovator, Justine dedicated her energies to nurturing and promoting the best of New Zealand arts and music through her performances with NZ Trio. James on the other hand, dived in completely the opposite direction, as his fascination with the freedom and energy of baroque performance practice led him to work with many of Europe’s top baroque orchestras and ensembles.

It was there, while performing with Al Ayre Espanol that James met the Spanish theorbo player Juan Carlos de Mulder - one of the most sought after Spanish theorbists and a player that exudes musicality, warmth and positivity. The music of France throughout the centuries has always been an emotional language of tenderness, colour and verve.