Michael Houstoun, New Zealand’s most acclaimed pianist, returns to Waikanae for a concert on Saturday 23 March. A regular contributor to Waikanae Music Society concert seasons, Michael has been a firm favourite with Kāpiti audiences since his first appearance in 1986.
The concert will open with the music of Bach, although with a difference. The great Fantasia and Fugue in G minor, originally for organ, has been transcribed for piano by Liszt who brilliantly captures the grandeur and richness of this famous work. The programme continues with a selection of Liszt’s own compositions, ranging from the flamboyance of the Two Concert Etudes (Waldesrauschen and Gnomenreigen) to the serene contemplation of the Bénédiction de Dieu dans la Solitude. Then a little suite of three pieces – “Outside the Window” by Chinese composer Gao Ping leads to the major work of the concert – Chopin’s Sonata in B minor, considered to be one of Chopin’s greatest masterpieces.
The concert will be in the Waikanae Memorial Hall at 2.30pm. Patrons are reminded that this concert is on a Saturday – unusual as traditionally Waikanae concerts have always been held on Sundays. Tickets will be available from Waikanae New World and Moby Dickens Books in Paraparaumu Beach. For other booking enquiries go to www.waikanaemusic.org.nz or phone 022 345 5316. There will be door sales, but as Michael’s concerts are always very popular, bookings are recommended.
