Monday, February 15, 2010

Amadeus launched in Melbourne

On Sunday 14 February, 25 Musica Viva supporters were honoured to hear an intimate performance by the Borodin Quartet at the residence of Julian Burnside AO QC, chair of Melbourne's new Amadeus Society. The Quartet's programming was intelligent as always - Haydn's 'Russian' Quartet op 33 no 6 paired with Shostakovich's dedication to the victims of facism and war, his String Quartet no 8.

The Amadeus Society is a group of esteemed individuals who have joined together to support extraordinary artistic initiatives of Musica Viva Australia. The Society takes its name from the Amadeus Quartet – revered for its meticulous preparation, flawless execution and breathtaking musical vision. Just as the music created by this quartet was a gift to chamber music audiences of the world, the Amadeus Society exists to make an invaluable gift to the musical life of Australia. Members' donations ensure that the world's foremost musicians, such as the Borodin Quartet, can continue to tour Australia.

Melbourne audiences will have the chance to see the Borodin Quartet in public recitals tonight, Tuesday 16 February, and Saturday 20 February at the Melbourne Recital Centre. Tonight's concert includes Shostokovich's 4th and 11th String Quartets, works in which the Borodins are regarded as an authority. To read more about the Quartet's approach to performing Shostakovich see Robin Usher's article in The Age: http://www.theage.com.au/news/entertainment/music/genius-lives-in-long-family-line/2010/02/14/1266082214670.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1

If you, too, would like to share your opinion of the Borodin Quartet's performance, don't forget about Musica Viva's "So You Think You Can Write?" competition. To submit a review all you need to do is attend the Borodin String Quartet concert in your respective city, then within 48 hours email knowthescore@mva.org.au to submit your piece. The five best entries (both positive and negative reviews can be winners!) will receive a double pass to the second concert in Musica Viva's season - The Harp Consort. The winner will also receive a 8CD set ABC Classic 100 Chamber Music valued at $89.95. Reviews will be posted online. Happy writing!

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