Omega Ensemble Performs Schubert’s Classics

Omega Ensemble present two of Franz Schubert’s most popular works The Trout Quintet and the Octet in F major.

The Trout Quintet vividly evokes the sensation of the splash of darting fish in the Austrian alpine stream, where Schubert was inspired to compose in the summer of 1819, drawing from his earlier adaptation of a poem. Yet that song takes a twist in the final verse when the trout is stopped dead – by a fisherman’s hook. Schubert was no stranger to the darker emotions and what might lurk under the surface of the sparkling stream or enchanting melody.

“My compositions spring from my sorrows. Those that give the world the greatest delight were born of my deepest griefs.” – Franz Schubert

The Trout Quintet is unusual in that, instead of combining a piano with a string quartet, the five movements are scored for piano, violin, viola, cello and double bass. With the lower range of the double bass in the ensemble, the effect is one of space and depth and air perhaps conjuring images of clear skies and a mountain scene.

Schubert’s six-movement Octet in F major is another timeless favourite. Featuring clarinet, bassoon, horn, two violins, viola, cello, and double bass, the combination of string and wind instruments conveys the textures of a larger orchestra yet with all the clarity and focus of more intimate chamber music.

David Rowden’s virtuosic clarinet playing is highlighted in the octet – a work that was commissioned by a clarinetist. Omega Ensemble was formed 12 years ago by David Rowden, now joined by Maria Raspopova as Co-Artistic Director. The ensemble’s flexibility in size and line-up allows it to perform a range of repertoire from larger chamber works to duos. They look to the future with brand new works, as well as acknowledging the past, performing the classics as well as reviving forgotten gems.
The program: Schubert – Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 114 ‘The Trout’/ Schubert – Octet in F major, D. 803

The performers: Alexandra Osborne (violin), Veronique Serret (violin), Neil Thompson (viola), Paul Stender (cello), Alex Henery (double bass), David Rowden (clarinet), Ben Hoadley (bassoon), Michael Dixon (horn), Maria Raspopova (piano)

Tickets: Premium $119, A Reserve $99, B Reserve $79 / Conc. $69 / Students and Under 30 $29
Discounts available for City Recital Hall Members.
Bookings: cityrecitalhall.com or omegaensemble.com.au or call 02 8256 2222