Watercolours

‘There is no theory,’ Debussy famously declared. ‘Pleasure is the law!’

While Debussy strenuously rejected the association, some have drawn parallels between his music and the French Impressionist painters. The Impressionists were more concerned with the essence of a thing than its substance; this program explores that shimmering, transparent quality that we often associate with nostalgia and fond remembering.

From the opening bars, Debussy’s virtuosic G minor violin sonata reveals its depth of character. Dancing between light and shadow, this melancholic work is punctuated by bursts of sunny optimism and exuberance. Just as exquisite and nuanced, his Ariette oubliées (Forgotten Songs) – based on poems by Paul Verlaine – embody the emotions and sensations stirred by the natural world: the shadow cast by a tree, the sound of rainfall or a gentle morning breeze.

One of the leading keyboardists of his time, Gabriel Fauré premiered his First Violin Sonata with violinist Paul Viardot, to whom it was dedicated – this perhaps explains the unusually demanding and virtuosic piano part. Vibrant, charming and lively, this gloriously lush work of Romantic French music showcases the composer’s distinct and original voice.

This program features a new commission from Connor D’Netto, whose work balances intricate rhythms with heartfelt lyricism and rich, enveloping textures. We close with Debussy’s poignant ‘lover’s dialogue’ from Fêtes galantes, also based on Verlaine’s poetry.

YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE

When to arrive
Doors will be open from 1.30pm for the 2pm concert.

Box Office
The Box Office will open at 1.30pm for ticket sales and collection. Please show your tickets on entry for contactless checking. If you have not received your tickets due to postage delays, CSO ticketing staff will be able to tick your name off the list.

Cloaking
Cloaking is not available at Albert Hall.

Parking
Limited parking is available off Kaye Street.

Interval
The concert will run for approximately 1h 15 minutes without interval.

Refreshments
Refreshments will not be served – apologies for any inconvenience.

Concert programs
Complimentary concert programs will be available on arrival. Program notes and artist profiles are also available online: https://restmagazine.org.au/category/chamber-classics-watercolours/

Construction work as part of the Light Rail to Woden project may result in road closures near the concert venue. Stay up to date on any travel impacts at https://www.builtforcbr.act.gov.au/travel-impacts