Australian Music Centre | Breaking sound barriers

Event Details

For centuries, standard philosophy held that the world was made of four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. In the 18th century, it was understood that God created the world not from nothing, but from chaos, which consisted of the four elements in contention with each other.

The most remarkable music in this program if not the entire 18th century, is found in Les élémens by Jean–Féry Rebel, long time leader of the elite Versailles orchestra called the 24 Violons du Roy. The opening, Chaos, has tone clusters that would have been considered avant-garde in the 20th century.

To celebrate the richness and diversity of our modern society, the Sydney Consort explores musical intersections between old and new, tradition and innovation. The concert emphasises the continuity between early music of Europe and modern Australia with the pairing of music by baroque masters by celebrated Dutch and Australian composers. We then explore links in harmony between baroque French and contemporary visions of the landscape in a rich program that integrates Western instrumental music. Like our contemporary culinary tradition, this musical journey presents a fascinating fusion of influences to create a refreshingly spicy dish of sonic delight.

Alicia CROSSLEY recorders
Stan W. KORNEL baroque violin
Shaun NG viola da gamba
Monika KORNEL harpsichord

Featured non-Australian music: Barrière, Rebel, Royer, Veldhuis, Biber

Further information for this event is available online at the event's website

Featured Australian Works

Featured artists

• Performer Alicia Crossley
• Performer Sydney Consort