Presented in association with the University of Waikato.

Programme:
Bjorn Arntsen | Low Ceiling  
Messiaen | Le Merle noir | The Blackbird
Anthony Ritchie | Octopus
George Crumb | Vox Balaenae  | Voice of the Whale 
Gareth Farr | Waipoua
Beethoven | Septet (selected movements)

A beautifully curated performance of music and words reflecting on the environment. Opening with the winning composition from the 2022 Composer Workshop, Octopus by Anthony Ritchie then depicts the fluid and graceful movements and journey of that mysterious sea creature.

Gareth Farr’s Waipoua recollects the overwhelming sight of Tane-Mahuta, the giant Kauri and The Blackbird incorporates Messiaen’s deep interest in birdsong. George Crumb’s Vox Balaenae  inspired by whale songs incorporates special lighting and theatrical effects.

The evening is rounded out with the final two movements from Beethoven’s Septet. "This is my creation!" the composer is said to have exclaimed at the premiere, having in mind Joseph Haydn's great oratorio "The Creation", which had been completed just a year earlier.