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.
Harpsichordist Donald Nicolson will direct the ensemble from the keyboard, featuring the music of Bach, Corelli and Australian composers 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 “a conversation between eras, weaving the music of today with the enduring beauty of Bach and Corelli”.
“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,” she said.
“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”.
MCO is at McAuley Hall, Sacred Heart College on Friday 21 November. Visit mco.org.au/whats-on/nightingale for tickets and more information.
