World Premier of Major Symphonic Work by Celebrated New Zealand Composer
Friday 18 April 2008, 10:01AM
By Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra
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In his final year as the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra Composer-in-Residence, celebrated New Zealand composer Gareth Farr presents the world premier of a major symphonic work titled Ex Stasis.
Performed as part of the orchestra’s APN News & Media Premier Series concert, Moments of Discovery, this symphonic song cycle of four voices and orchestra meditates on themes self-discovery and revelation, and incorporates a legendary love affair between land and sky – a work the composer hopes will send audiences to “a momentary experience of a different plane of existence”.
Recognised as one of the country’s most prolific and performed composers, Gareth Farr’s works are characterised by their beauty and excitement. With a track record of high-profile international events, including the opening of the National Museum Te Papa, as well as New Zealand’s Millennium Celebrations beamed live across the globe, he has become a sought-after composer locally and internationally.
Also in the concert is composer Manuel de Falla’s Three Cornered Hat. Set in a sunny Spanish village, the work is full of local flavour, romance, intrigue, mistaken identity and comedy, rounding off what’s sure to be a musically rewarding and entertaining evening.
Moments of Discovery will be conducted by Tecwyn Evans, who is among the country’s most successful musicians, and features the vocal talents of Deborah Wai Kapohe, George Henare, Mere Boynton and James Egglestone, as well as an augmented APO.
“The APO is very proud to premiere Ex Stasis to the world, and to bring Gareth’s unique vision to life,” says Barbara Glaser, the orchestra’s Chief Executive. “The quality of his works secures the future of New Zealand music in an international arena, and that’s a future that the APO is committed to enriching whole-heartedly.”
Single tickets (limited number still available) to Moments of Discovery (from $20-$110) are available from Ticketek, Ph 09 307 5139, www.ticketek.co.nz .