String it up @Central Library! Stringophilia

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During one of the last glorious days of autumn on the 15th of May, Cathy Irons and Tomas Hurik treated us to a sublime performance in the Central Library’s first floor red lounge. The richness and warmth of the string sound was reflected in Tomas’s face by the end of an hour programme in such a lovely sun trap.

Both tenured members of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra performed a varied repertoire of pieces with something for everyone from Beethoven to Joplin with Alinoni, Stamitz, Bach, Handel-Halvorsen and Prokofiev sprinkled in between. Audience members appreciated the depth of skill and talent on show by turning out in large numbers navigating the maze of obstacles set before them by the building refurbishments to find their way upstairs. Their efforts were rewarded by an outstanding display of talent by two senior members of our city’s orchestra. Rarely do we get to hear members the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra close up and personal in such an intimate setting and this duet pairing of violin and cello was a delicious treat.

Many audience members took the chance to hear classical and rag time music played live in concert with Scot Joplin’s rag The Entertainer from the 1973 movie The Sting being a particular crowd pleaser to those new to concert music. If you missed the concert or want to hear more why not listen to  Cathy Iron’s CD Inspired.

Did you attend any Music Month concerts? What was your favourite Music Month moment?

Music resources at Christchurch City Libraries

Profiles of Christchurch musicians

Stringophilia At New Brighton Library

As the rain kept coming down and the chill wind crept under even the thickest garments on Sunday, those seeking shelter in New Brighton Library were treated to a sublime performance of singing strings. Cathy Irons (violin) and Tomas Hurnik (cello), both Christchurch Symphony Orchestra musicians, performed a number of pieces together and solo, including compositions  from Stamitz, Prokofiev, Telemann and Bach.

While many people arrived especially for the performance, others who were just happening by couldn’t help but stop and listen on in wonder. It quickly became apparent that there were nowhere near enough seats for all in attendance and the popularity of the event brought a warmth to the library which was sorely needed on such a chill day. The performance ended with a generous amount of applause and people went on their way with lifted spirits and the knowledge that they had heard something a little bit special.

From a personal point of view it was so nice to be at work and to have the opportunity to listen to some wonderful music being performed by such accomplished musicians. Thanks again to Cathy and Tomas for providing those present with a marvellous experience.