Passion and Lyricism in Streeton Trio’s ‘Fire’s On’

The Streeton Trio, comprising Emma Jardine, Benjamin Kopp and guest cellist Chris Pidcock, return with “Fire’s On,” a passionate program consisting of three of the most lyrical and expressive pieces written for piano trio. It’s the latest of the Prelude in Tea series which – as always – includes a mouth-watering afternoon tea!

Arthur Streeton’s ‘Fire’s On’, painted in 1891, depicts a man being stretchered out of the Lapstone tunnel after a botched explosion. The drama of the scene, almost overshadowed by the heroic landscape, sets the backdrop for this program, featuring music of Arensky, Babadjanian and Shostakovich.

Arensky’s scintillating piece continues the Russian tradition of elegiac piano trios with his four-movement romantic masterpiece, inspired by the death of his friend. Babadjanian is an Armenian composer known for making use of folk music elements in his work. His relatively small output contains some masterpieces, including this lyrical work.

The climax of the concert is the fiery turbulence of Shostakovich’s legendary Trio no.2 (1944) which was dedicated to his recently deceased friend Ivan Sollertinsky. It has become one of the most popular piano trios of the entire 20th century repertoire.

The Streeton Trio was formed in 2008, in Geneva, Switzerland and, after spending several years in Europe, is now based in Sydney. In 2010, the trio was selected to be a part of the prestigious European Chamber Music Academy, where it was in residence for three years. Winner of the 2011 Music Viva Chamber Music Competition, the Streeton Trio has been laureate of several prestigious international competitions and in 2012, the trio was featured as Musica Viva’s Rising Stars ensemble. The trio has released four critically praised CDs, which are frequently featured on ABC FM and the MBS Networks. Named after the Australian Impressionist painter, Sir Arthur Streeton, the trio has received great acclaim for performances in iconic venues across Europe, the United Kingdom, China, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East.

The programme: Arensky – Piano Trio in D minor Op. 32/ Babadjanian – Piano Trio in F sharp minor/ Shostakovich – Piano Trio No. 2 in E minor Op.67

Tickets: Adult $49, Conc/Under 30 $32, Student $22, Child $17. Afternoon tea included
Bookings: www.theindependent.org.au   or call 9955 3000