Renowned for transforming the Australian classical music scene, Omega Ensemble’s upcoming tour promises an experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
The tour will feature Frédéric Chopin’s remarkable first Piano Concerto, Olli Mustonen’s Nonet II, and a world premiere by emerging Australian composer Harry Sdraulig. Omega Ensemble’s penultimate national tour for 2024 is set to captivate audiences with its virtuosity and brilliance.
In line with Chopin’s preference for intimate settings over large concert halls, the concert, titled Concertante, will showcase a streamlined arrangement with just 10 musicians. This approach aims to draw the audience in closely, maintaining their engagement throughout the performance.
“Performing big music with a small but mighty ensemble is Omega Ensemble’s modus operandi,” said Artistic Director David Rowden. “It offers a fresh perspective and unlocks a greater sense of musical clarity.”
Concertante will take place on October 1 at the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall in the Melbourne Recital Centre as part of the ongoing Chamber Music series, before embarking on a tour across the country.
Pianist Vatche Jambazian will lead Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with dazzling skill. “Vatche is an iron fist in a velvet glove,” remarked Rowden. “His passion and intensity on stage resonate with the audience, and he excels at channeling this emotion into every performance, whether the music is ferocious or fluid.”
Omega Ensemble has also enlisted one of Australia’s most exciting composers for this tour. Described by Australian Stage as “the most interesting voice in Australian composition for many years,” Harry Sdraulig is a prominent figure in contemporary Australian music.
Sdraulig is known for his unique stylistic approach, combining tonal and chromatic elements while exploring the boundaries of tonality, making his music accessible to classically trained musicians. His compositions often feature rich harmonies and intricate rhythmic interplay, drawing inspiration from classical, jazz, and popular music.
Currently pursuing his Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Sydney, Sdraulig’s works have gained wide acclaim, frequently performed and broadcast across Australia and internationally in Europe, the UK, and the US. His portfolio includes commissions from esteemed organizations like the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Musica Viva, renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and the Zelman Symphony Orchestra.
Omega Ensemble has commissioned a new piece from Sdraulig titled Triptych, composed for clarinet and string nonet. “The music that Harry has created is not only extremely well-crafted; it is overflowing with style,” Rowden noted. “Harry is a young Australian composer destined to make waves globally, so it’s a joy to share his music with Australian audiences at this stage in his career.”
Also featured is Olli Mustonen, one of Australia’s most cherished concert pianists. Originating from Helsinki, Mustonen is celebrated as a versatile performer, excelling as a pianist, composer, and conductor. His holistic approach to music imbues him with a unique perspective and a distinct style.
A familiar presence on Australian stages, Mustonen’s work will be warmly welcomed back to Melbourne. His interpretation of Nonetto II, inspired by the 17th and 18th centuries, promises to deliver warmth, vigor, and a passionate grand finale.
Acclaimed as “the best chamber music outfit in town” by the Sydney Morning Herald, Omega Ensemble is the driving force behind Concertante. Founded in 2005, the ensemble is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of musical expression, collaborating with leading composers and hosting innovative premieres.
With multiple nominations for APRA/AMCOS Classical Music Awards and accolades from respected classical music critics, Omega Ensemble aims to keep the art of classical music vibrant in Australia and beyond.
With the talents of Omega Ensemble and contributions from Sdraulig, Mustonen, and others, Concertante will undoubtedly honor the legacy of Chopin. This one-night-only performance in Melbourne promises to be an enthralling 90 minutes from start to finish.
Related Topics
- Dom Pipkin: Bringing the Sounds of New Orleans to London
- Two-Time Grammy Nominee Jean-Yves Thibaudet to Perform Piano Concerts in Taiwan
- Ron Thorn’s Florentine Empirial: A Stunning Masterpiece of Guitar Craftsmanship
