An exciting programme of Hungarian music was presented at
Marama Hall on Tuesday by the New Zealand String Quartet -
Helene Pohl and Douglas Beilman (violins), Gillian Ansell
(viola) and Rolf Gjelsten (cello), and international
Hungarian piano virtuoso Peter Nagy.
The energy, colourful interpretation and string unity was
absolutely outstanding, and the venue acoustically ideal.
Piano Quintet No. 2 in E flat minor, Op. 26 (1914), by
Dohnanyi, a composer recognised historically as one of
Hungary's greatest pianists, opened with luscious harmonies,
to traverse big sweeping passages tastefully enhanced with
constantly shifting dynamics.
It is a work of great romantic beauty, and lovingly
interpreted, as strong themes passed between instruments.
String Quartet No 1 (Metamorphoses nocturnes) is by
contemporary Hungarian composer George Ligeti (1923-2006).
Opening in a rather spooky mood, the music quickly developed
into a unique and exhilarating work.
The quartet revelled in the wildly chromatic dissonance and
kaleidoscopic character, delving into the special effects bag
with riveting virtuosity to execute the purest of harmonics
and a miscellany of deftly fabricated glissandos.
Brahms's Piano Quartet No 1 in G minor Op. 25 is a
long, intense work, crammed with colour and contrast.
The final Presto saw the musicians totally capture the
spirit and fervour of the Gypsy themes, inviting the listener
to inhale the passion of the dance.
A bonus came with Nagy's celebration of Liszt's 200th
birthday, with a Hungarian Rhapsody. A performance par
excellence, delivering the intense and turbulent passages
with spellbinding clarity and heartfelt interpretation.
The recital was repeated last night in Cromwell.
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