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.
Composer Lyell Cresswell: truth, lies and a brilliant Piano Concerto
Stephen De Pledge is preparing to premiere Lyell Cresswell's final work, his Piano Concerto No 3, with the NZSO in four New Zealand cities. The composer's quirky autobiography will be launched before each concert.
Somi Kim’s Pictures: virtuosity on full display
Somi Kim’s new album Pictures at an Exhibition pairs Mussorgsky’s piano masterpiece with a new work, Aotearoa Pictures, by New Zealand composer Janet Jennings.
Confronting the Modern Gods: John Psathas and Fabian Ziegler
The album Modern Gods, music by composer John Psathas performed by percussionist Fabian Ziegler and pianist Akvilė Šileikaitė, confronts the relationship between people and the “modern gods” of technology.
Michael Houstoun plays Brahms: miniature marvels
Pianist Michael Houstoun marks his 70th birthday with an album from Rattle of Brahms’ intermezzi. He says this introspective music “fits with an older player’s psyche.”
Portrait with Piano: Jenny McLeod
An 80th birthday tribute album shines a light on 50 years of piano composition by New Zealand composer Jenny McLeod
Tony Yan Tong Chen - Homecoming
Young New Zealand pianist Tony Yan Tong Chen displays his range and virtuosity on a new album of music by Liszt, Mozart, Tan Dun, John Psathas and Prokofiev.