Details

Love is the greatest inspiration.

Unique in the musical landscape of Australia, Songmakers Australia brings together some of the country’s leading singers and instrumentalists in a diverse repertoire comprising some of the pinnacles of all chamber music.

Under the artistic patronage of Graham Johnson, pianist Andrea Katz teams with soprano Merlyn Quaife, mezzosoprano Christina Wilson, tenor Brenton Spiteri and bass-baritone Nicholas Dinopoulos in inspired programs that feature a dynamic interplay of song and chamber music.

About the concert

Their performance in Primrose Potter Salon presents passionate works from Wagner and Berg. Love is the greatest inspiration for poetry and songs. ‘To the Angel who has lifted me so high’ – with those words Wagner dedicated his only song cycle to his muse, poetess and paramour, Mathilde Wesendonk.

Berg’s Seven Early Songs were also inspired by the love in his life, his wife Helene. Emotionally and musically attached to the great German Romantic style, it reflects Berg’s obsession with driving back to the beginning.

Praise for Songmakers Australia

‘The prolonged standing ovation at the end was not only an acknowledgement of Merlyn Quaife’s outstanding contribution to Australia’s cultural life, it also reflected an appreciation of her undiminished artistry and a vocal technique that will endure for many years to come. Brava Merlyn!’ Classic Melbourne

COVID Safety

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Artists

Songmakers Australia
Merlyn Quaife soprano
Christina Wilson mezzo soprano
Andrea Katz piano