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.
Michael Houstoun and “the 48”: insight into Bach’s genius
Pianist Michael Houstoun’s new album of the 48 Preludes and Fugues of Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier is a magnificent achievement and a great insight into the Baroque master’s genius.
Liszt’s Transcendental Études: Luu Hong Quang’s magnificent piano marathon
Prize-winning pianist Luu Hong Quang is in impressive command of the piano and the music in this new album of Liszt’s complete Transcendental Études.
NZSO Immerse: Vengerov plays Sibelius
Violinist Maxim Vengerov’s Sibelius Violin Concerto was a highlight of the NZSO’s Immerse Festival, under the sensitive baton of André de Ridder.
Suite Aotearoa: magic woven from our natural world
Pianist Sharon Joy Vogan conceived, commissioned and performed the new works for the magical album, Suite Aotearoa, collaborating with taonga pūoro specialist Horomona Horo.
NZSO National Youth Orchestra: an exuberant musical showcase
The NZSO National Youth Orchestra, conducted by Tianyi Lu, offered a feast of exciting young talent, including dazzling piano prodigy Shan Liu
Pianist Jian Liu: a way of living through music
Pianist Jian Liu is having a busy 2024, but his career from China to New Zealand via America has prepared him for this life in music.
Barley and De Pledge: Dream team
Matthew Barley and Stephen de Pledge are currently touring Aotearoa for Chamber Music New Zealand with a programme of Beethoven, Brahms and other “interesting stuff”.
John Psathas: Voices at the End
John Psathas wrote Voices at the End for six grand pianos to communicate a heartfelt message about our world. For the premiere he had a “dream team”.
Nocturnal pleasures
In pianist Jian Liu’s touring recital “Nocturnes” the choice of music is as well-judged as his fine playing.