NZTrio is renowned for its eclectic concerts. 'Beyond the Pale' is no exception. The trio's September national tour takes audiences on a journey into musical extremes, from the classical charm of Beethoven to the sonic sensations of New Zealand's Phil Dadson.

Six centres, from Kerikeri to Dunedin, are treated to NZTrio's 'Beyond the Pale' tour. The concerts open with Beethoven's Piano Trio, a work which was praised for its innovation when composed and commanded immediate public attention. NZTrio is renowned for its eclectic concerts. 'Beyond the Pale' is no exception. The trio's September national tour takes audiences on a journey into musical extremes, from the classical charm of Beethoven to the sonic sensations of New Zealand's Phil Dadson.

Six centres, from Kerikeri to Dunedin, are treated to NZTrio's 'Beyond the Pale' tour. The concerts open with Beethoven's Piano Trio, a work which was praised for its innovation when composed and commanded immediate public attention."It's an exuberant piece filled with warmth and humour," says pianist Sarah Watkins. "And is a perfect work to segue into the riot of colour and sound that personifies Phil Dadson's new work, commissioned by the trio. This new piece is totally compelling, involving elements of improvisation and exploration, and by using invented instruments as well as our more traditional ones, unique, dynamic sounds are created."

Ross Edwards' Piano Trio, which features on the trio's recent chart-topping CD 'Bright Tide Moving Between', is a favourite of violinist Justine Cormack. "Ross Edwards is an outstanding Australian composer," she says, "and I especially enjoy the tuneful, alluring style of this work and the way it builds from a lucid calm into effervescent dancing/chanting rhythms."

The programme finishes on a luscious note with the rich colour world of the Brahms C minor Piano Trio. "This is a magnificent work," says cellist Ashley Brown, "and is not often heard on the concert platform. It's a classic, and is a much loved example of Brahms's lyrical dexterity."

Hitch a ride with NZTrio and go Beyond the Pale for an experience of vibrant colour, rich texture and sharp contrast.

'Beyond the Pale' concert programme

Beethoven: Piano Trio in E flat, Opus1, No.1
Phil Dadson (NZ): New Work - World premiere and NZTrio commission
Ross Edwards (Australia): Piano Trio
Brahms: Piano Trio in C minor, Opus 101

Concert dates and booking details

The Centre at Kerikeri - Sunday 7 September, 2.00pm
Bookings: 09 407 0260 or www.centakeri.com

Glenroy Auditorium, Dunedin - Friday 12 September, 8.00pm
Bookings: Ticketdirect 0800 4 TICKET (0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz

The Great Hall, Arts Centre Christchurch - Saturday 13 September, 8.00pm
Bookings: Ticketdirect 0800 4 TICKET (0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz

School of Music Auditorium, Nelson - Tuesday 16 September, 8.00pm
Bookings: Ticketdirect 0800 4 TICKET (0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz

St Andrew's on the Terrace, Wellington - Thursday 18 September, 8.00pm
Bookings: Ticketdirect 0800 4 TICKET (0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz

School of Music Theatre, The University of Auckland - Sunday 21 September, 5.00pm
Bookings: Ticketdirect 0800 4 TICKET (0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz

TICKETS: Advance Bookings $30 adults, $15 concession;
Door Sales $35 adults, $20 concession
NZTrio is Ensemble in Residence at The University of Auckland.
The 'Beyond the Pale' tour is supported by Creative New Zealand with sponsorship from SOAR.

"As a performing group, NZTrio is outstanding. Not only are they technically sure as individuals, but their ensemble playing, even in the most demanding items, was impeccable."

[David Sell, The Press, Christchurch, April 2008]

"NZTrio's innovative programme is as addictive as the youthful energy of its playing"

[Ian Dando, NZ Listener, July 2008]

Image: Tim Gunner

NZ Trio
03/09/08