Sunday 28 August
Strings Amore
“Riseley’s playing achieved delicacy and subtle expression that was absolutely perfect” – (Patrick Shepherd, Christchurch)
Programme
Vivaldi: Concerto for viola d’amore in D Major, RV392
Telemann: Concerto for two violas d’amore
Graupner: Concerto for viola d’amore in D Major
Bach: Concerto for violin in E Major
Graupner: Concerto for viola d’amore and viola in A Major
Telemann: Concerto for viola in G Major
Bach: Erbarme Dich (St Matthew Passion) for
violin, viola and strings
Sophia Acheson (viola), Donald Maurice (viola), Rupa Maitra (violin), Margaret Guldborg (cello), Martin Riseley (violin).
This ensemble brings together five accomplished string players to present works by some of the greatest Baroque composers. Their programme showcases the viola d’amore, an exquisitely
beautiful instrument from the baroque era. The viola d’amore has six or seven strings and an equal number of sympathetic strings which are not played directly but vibrate in sympathy, giving it a particularly sweet and warm sound.
Martin Riseley is well-known as Head of Strings at the NZ School of Music.
Donald Maurice has recorded two CDs of music for the viola d’amore and has vast experience as a teacher and performer in New Zealand and overseas.
Rupa Maitra, a first violinist in Orchestra Wellington, is a busy violin teacher as well as part-time pathologist.
Studies in Spain and the United States inspired Sophia Acheson’s interest in early music, including playing the viola d’amore and the viola da gamba. Back in New Zealand she worked as a freelance musician before being appointed principal violist of Orchestra Wellington.
Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Margaret Guldborg studied and worked in Boston, Denmark and Malaysia before moving to Wellington. A busy teacher, she also plays with various ensembles including Orchestra Wellington.
