Complex, ornate, evocative, dramatic – words that accurately describe but do not adequately capture the grandeur of Baroque music.
That spectacle will be on full display when Melbourne Chamber Orchestra (MCO) presents Nightingale, a vibrant program combining Baroque classics with modern gems from Australian composers.
Harpsichordist Donald Nicolson will direct the ensemble from the keyboard, performing as soloist in Bach’s Concerto No.1 in D minor for Harpsichord and Strings, a quintessential example of Baroque brilliance.
In addition to Bach, Nightingale features works from Corelli as well as Melbourne composer Melody Eötvös and Colin Brumby.
Nicolson expressed his excitement for the program, describing it as “music that leaps off the page”.
“This program revels in connection – between musicians, centuries and audiences,” he said.
“It’s joyful, bold and full of life.”
MCO artistic director Sophie Rowell said Nightingale was “alive with energy and connection”.
“At its heart, Nightingale is a conversation between eras, weaving the music of today with the enduring beauty of Bach and Corelli,” she said.
“From Donald Nicolson’s electric presence at the keyboard to the world premiere of Melody Eötvös’ luminous new work, this concert celebrates our artistry and imagination.
“There’s something magical about hearing how these worlds speak to one another — how contemporary voices can illuminate the past, and how the timeless grace of baroque music continues to inspire us now.”
Bassist Emma Sullivan will also perform one of the most celebrated double bass sonatas of the era, which Rowell said would be a “special moment”.
“(Sullivan’s) musicality and warmth have been at the core of our ensemble,” she said.
“This concert is a joyful meeting of past and present and the perfect send-off to what has been a fabulous year of music-making for MCO.”
MCO is at McAuley Hall, Sacred Heart College on Friday 21 November. Visit mco.org.au/whats-on/nightingale for tickets and more information.
