Amici Ensemble

Always popular, the Amici Ensemble are regular performers for Waikanae Music Society, returning each year as a different type of ensemble. This time they will appear as a piano quartet, although, in typical Amici style, one item will be for a different type of ensemble, a string trio. Joining violinist Donald Armstrong for this concert will be leading NZSO players Alexander McFarlane (viola) and Andrew Joyce (cello), while on piano will be Jian Liu, one of New Zealand's finest pianists.

The brief light-hearted trio by Frenchman Jean Francaix will open the concert with its characteristic sprightly dance rhythms. It will be followed by two of the most beautiful and acclaimed piano quartets in the repertoire. Faure's Quartet No 2, written in 1886, is a typical example of that composer's distinctive craftmanship and refined elegance. The second half of the concert will be devoted to the music of Brahms - his third and final piano quartet which is generally regarded as one of the finest masterpieces of 19th century romantic music. Intensely expressive, the music ranges from moments that are profoundly moving to others that have a restless driving energy.
Door sales will be available or tickets can be purchased at Waikanae New World and Moby Dickens Books in Paraparaumu Beach. For further information visit the website www.waikanaemusic.org.nz or phone 022 345 5316.