Justine Cormack – Violin

Gabrieli – Sonata pian’ e forte
Lilburn – Sinfonia for Strings
Martinů – Nonet No. 2 H.374

More than 400 years ago, Gabrieli’s "Sonata pian’ e forte" sent brass voices ringing through vast Venetian cathedrals. It pioneered the dramatic use of dynamics (contrasting loud and soft passages – the pian and forte of the title) and sounds that call and answer across the space, immersing listeners in a rich tapestry of sound. It helped define the sound of the Venetian Renaissance – bold, breathtaking, and still captivating today.

Aotearoa composer Douglas Lilburn paints a deeply personal landscape in his "Sinfonia for Strings", drawing its images from the pioneer sheep-farming hill country of his youth. Lush textures and inward lyricism reflect the composer’s deep connection to the Aotearoa landscape. CSO Concertmaster Justine Cormack leads the strings in drawing out both the intimacy and strength at the heart of this treasured work.

Composed in the final year of his life, Martinů’s "Nonet No. 2" is a rare musical gem uncovered especially to delight Ōtautahi audiences. Scored for nine distinct wind and string instruments, it unfolds like a lively gathering where each voice shines solo yet blends beautifully into a joyful whole. Woven through the music are the spirited folk influences of Martinů’s Czech roots, grounding this bright and playful work in the traditions that shaped him.

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