Elysian Fields Takes ‘A Singular Path’
Elysian Fields, the popular ‘crossover’ ensemble returns as part of the Independent Theatre’s Sunday afternoon series Prelude in Tea which includes a delicious afternoon tea followed by performances by some of Australia’s finest musicians.
As Australia’s only electric viola da gamba ensemble, Elysian Fields is on a singular path to creating a new sound world and a whole new repertoire for the modern version of one of the western world’s most ancient instruments, the viola da gamba. Naturally, this concert is titled A Singular Path and features singer violinist/vocalist Susie Bishop, jazz legends Matt McMahon and Matt Keegan on piano and saxophones, Jenny Eriksson on viola da gamba and Siebe Pogson and Dave Goodman on bass and percussion.
Jenny Eriksson is one of Australia’s leading acoustic viola da gamba players. She was determined to embark on a new direction with her amplified viola da gamba. “I remain deeply embedded in classical music,” she said, “But working with world and jazz musicians of this calibre is something I’ve dreamed of for years, it’s changed my life. I love it!”
A Singular Path sees the world premiere of Gordon Kerry’s I dreamed I moved among the Elysian Fields. Kerry is the first classical rather than jazz composer to write for the group. Says Eriksson: “When Gordon contacted me to say he had received a donation to fund a commission, and that he would like to write a work for both The Marais Project, my early music group, and Elysian Fields, I was so grateful. He is a remarkable composer and working with him has been an enormous pleasure.”
Founded in 2015 Elysian Fields have appeared at Vivid New Music at The Con, the Sydney Women’s International Jazz Festival, The Hub, Springwood, and Canowindra Baroque Music Festival. Elysian Fields’ first CD, “What should I Say” was released in 2018. Elysian Fields was Fine Music 102.5’s Associate Artists in Residence in 2018/19.
Tickets: $49 adult, $32 concession/under 30, $22 student, $17 child
Bookings and information: www.theindependent.org.au or 9955 3000
