Bohemian rhapsody: NZSO brings Baroque masterpiece to Tauranga

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra returns to Tauranga on 21 June to perform selections from a landmark work by legendary Baroque violin virtuoso Heinrich Biber.

The Bohemian composer’s Harmonia artificioso-ariosa, written in 1696, is one of the greatest compositions of the Baroque era. The masterpiece includes what was at the time unusual tunings which resulted in extraordinarily complex harmonies and polyphonic effects.

The Baroque Innovations tour, led by NZSO Concertmaster Vesa-Matti Leppänen, is a rare opportunity to experience Biber at his best.

An outstanding Baroque violinist, Biber wrote many pieces for the instrument, including sonatas for violin and another stringed instrument or keyboard.

The NZSO continues to be praised for its performances of the best music by Baroque composers. Wellington’s The Post hailed the Orchestra’s performance of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons as “a triumph”.

Baroque Innovations is at Holy Trinity Tauranga.

The NZSO also presents Baroque Innovations in Wellington (17 June), Gisborne (20 June), Auckland (22 June), Kerikeri (23 June), Nelson (28 June) and Blenheim (29 June).

Tickets available here.