Viol concert celebrates spring
"Shaun is our virtuoso in that he plays bass viol, violin, theorbo (bass lute) and violone, the viol family version of the double bass. This afternoon he features on tenor viol."Thanks Jenny, Shaun.
The musicians will once again be provided by Sydney-based string virtuoso, Jennifer Eriksson.
Jennifer has strong ties with the Highlands as her parents-in-law, Ken and Mary Pogson, are long-term Moss Vale residents and members of Moss Vale Uniting Church.
In 2010 Jennifer thrilled a packed house with the music of her unique ensemble, The Marais Project.
At that concert, many in the audience got to hear the viola da gamba (a seven-string, fretted instrument the same size as a cello) and harpsichord for the first time.
This year Jennifer will introduce the Highlands to her new viol consort, "Seaven Teares" in their first concert outside Sydney.
"A viol consort is similar to a string quartet," Jennifer said.
"Only all the instruments are members of the viol family rather than the violin family.
"This means that even the smallest instrument, the treble (similar to a violin) is played between the knees, as is my instrument, the viola da gamba."
"The music for viol consorts is very beautiful and relaxing: much of it dates from around the time of Queen Elizabeth I.
"However, I've also arranged some well known songs for the Consort so those attending will get to hear our rather ancient instrument play some more contemporary tunes."
Special guest artist for the Highlands Spring Concert is soprano Nicole Thomson, a long-term member of the nationally known professional choir, "The Song Company."
"I've had the pleasure of accompanying Nicole before," Jennifer said. "She has a gorgeous voice and a special stage presence."
Other members of Seaven Teares include Cathy Upex, Shaun Ng and Imogen Granwal, all of whom have worked extensively with Eriksson in the past.
Together they recently completed a new studio recording of viol consort music for ABCFM.
When: 2pm on Sunday, September 18.
Where: Moss Vale Uniting Church, corner Argyle and Spring streets, Moss Vale. Cost: $15/10
Tickets: Ken Pogson (phone 0248 681463) and at the door .