Ole! Spanish Music for Violin and Piano

Cathy Irons (violin) and Kirsten Simpson (piano) present a vibrant lunchtime recital of Spanish music.

The programme includes de Falla's colourful and popular Spanish Suite, the full-blooded gypsy-style Sonata no 1 by Turina and a brilliant fast showpiece by Sarasate. Spanish music influenced the rest of the world and the French composer, Ravel composed his Piece en forme de Habanera with a gentle wash of sound over a pulsating dance rhythm. Argentinian – spanish Piazzolla concludes the program with his gutsy, earthy Milonga.

Cathy Irons who also plays in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, is an active chamber musician regularly playing with a string trio, Tres Cordes and as a duo with cellist Tomas Hurnik in Stringophilia. She recorded her CD “Inspired” with pianist Mark Secker which was broadcast on Radio NewZealand Concert and used a a backing for a film in the Wellington Short Film Festival. She tours regularly with the outreach program of the orchestra teaching, arranging and performing as part of a small ensemble.

Kirsten Simpson graduated with a M. Mus from Canterbury University studying under Diedre Irons. After winning “Performer of the Year”, she continued her studies in London at the Royal College of Music. Her international career has taken her from performing in London's Wigmore Hall to accompanying lessons given by Dame Kiri te Kanawa in Italy. She accompanied Dame Malvina Major on her CD “My Life in Song” . She returns to Christchurch in April from accompanying Dame Malvina Major on her South Island “Heartland Tour”.

Experience the passion and exuberance of Spanish music, ranging from impetuous wild flourishes to incredibly sensuous, slow melodies. Each piece is a facet of this vibrant culture.

Event listed by Cathy Irons

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