Five Lines is a collection of writings about music in Aotearoa New Zealand by Elizabeth Kerr. It features short articles, artist profiles and reviews of concerts, operas and albums. You can subscribe - it’s free - at the bottom of any story.
Orchestra Wellington’s Wozzeck: triumphant capture of Berg’s conception
Orchestra Wellington’s production of Alban Berg’s opera Wozzeck, a New Zealand premiere, was nothing short of astonishing.
NZ Opera’s Così fan tutte: sparkling, sophisticated artifice
New Zealand Opera’s sparkling Così fan tutte has an outstanding cast, clever direction, comedic highlights and an increasingly fantastic design. Just what was in those cocktails?
At the World’s Edge: musical bonfire in the mountains
Two violinists have set a musical bonfire alight in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Central Otago. Their second festival was a boldly programmed event in intimate venues, with top-notch international and local musicians.
Gareth Farr premiere: Where Will They Bury My Bones
A moving new work, Where will they bury my bones? by Gareth Farr and Paul Horan, had its premiere as a film with ex-patriate New Zealanders in the chamber ensemble.
Julien van Mellaerts - home and away
Baritone Julien van Mellaerts includes a song cycle commissioned from Gareth Farr and Bill Manhire in his new album of art songs called Songs of Travel and Home.
Singers surviving in a pandemic with London whānau
Singers Madeleine Pierard and Julien van Mellaerts have led New Zealand opera singers in London in a Royal Albert Hall recital to raise spirits and funds during pandemic disruptions.