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Presented by: Christchurch Symphony Orchestra

Lamb & Hayward Masterworks Series

French composer Messiaen’s Concert á quatre, drew inspiration from the composer’s regular musical influences Birdsong. Written for four musicians Messiaen felt particularly grateful to his wife pianist Yvonne Loriod and friends cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, oboist Heinz Holliger and flautist Catherine Cantin. Messiaen died before this was complete but it was finished by his widow.

In this concert we feature our own family and friends, Chief Conductor Tom Woods’ wife acclaimed pianist, Natalia Sheludiakova, international New Zealand flautist Alexa Still and CSO’s principal cellist Galyna Zelinksa.

The music of American composer, John Adams, has a film like quality and an optimistic outlook on the best aspects of modern life. Harmonielehre is a large, three-movement work for orchestra.

Also on the programme is the prelude to Wagner’s huge spiritual masterpiece Parsifal.

Conductor: Tom Woods Feature Artists: Alexa Still flute Galyna Zelinska cello Natalia Sheludiakova piano Guest oboist

Wagner Parsifal Prelude Messiaen Concert á quatre Adams Harmonielehre