This 2010 commission from the Seraphim Trio has a libretto from the Australian author Peter Goldsworthy. Subtitled a ‘cabaret quintet for soprano, violin, cello, piano and iPhone’, it is a mini-operetta that tells of a love affair starring a modern-day Brünnhilde and her phone. Koehne’s continuous flow of music recalls Wagner’s revolutionary ‘speech-song’, and members of the audience might need to brush up on tech jargon to fully appreciate the text! The score is also dotted with references to famous ring tones.
Vivaldi’s Concerto for Four Violins dazzles with its energy and virtuosic flair, while Leopold Mozart’s Concerto for Alto Trombone showcases the instrument’s unique lyrical qualities. Dvořák’s serene Nocturne in B major brings a touch of romance and tranquility, setting the stage for David Diamond’s vibrant Rounds for String Orchestra, a playful and rhythmically engaging finale.