Violinist Courtenay Cleary and pianist Alex Raineri joined forces to present an afternoon of colourful chamber music in Kreutzer on Sunday last week.

St Mary’s Anglican Church at Kangaroo Point, with its arched ceilings, stained-glass windows and sandstone walls, was a fitting venue for chamber music. The concert was presented as part of Alex’s Brisbane Music Festival 2022 series.

The program began with Courtenay and Alex performing Beethoven’s fiendishly difficult Kreutzer sonata. The music was boisterous and rhythmical, then gentle and romantic. Courtenay’s hands danced up and down her violin. She poured all her energy into performing, letting the melody resound through the hall.

We enjoyed an interval with afternoon tea and wine on the lawn outside the church. We looked out at the magnificent views of the Brisbane river and city. There was a slight sprinkling of rain, and then the sunshine returned.

For the second half, Courtenay and Alex were joined by BMF Young Artists Miriam Niessl and Daniel Shearer. They performed Korngold’s colourful Suite Op. 23 for Two Violins, Cello, and Piano Left Hand. Across its six movements, the work shifted between many colours and moods. The quartet leapt and twirled and danced and sang. Courtenay played with so much passion that she broke a string! She rushed backstage, replaced the string, and then returned. The quartet resumed playing, and the piece grew to a flourishing finish.

Kreutzer was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon. It showcased the artistry of Courtenay, Alex, Miriam and Daniel. It was the perfect way to enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon, listening to fine music and overlooking the river.

 

Brisbane Music Festival 2022
Concerts Coming Up
Jukebox
7:30-9:30 pm 28 &29 September
Bowen Studio, New Farm

Transcendence
6:30-7:30pm 28 Oct
Holy Trinity Hall, Fortitude Valley

Nature Spirit
8:30-10pm 28 Oct
Holy Trinity Hall, Fortitude Valley

View the full 2022 program here.