It is fitting that newly-formed time-travelling duo Bronzewing should choose an anthem by Hildegard von Bingen to open their debut gig in Sydney.

The 12th century German abbess – and later saint – was a woman for all the ages: A composer, philosopher, writer, natural scientist, a Renaissance soul two centuries before that word even existed.

One senses that she would have approved of their treatment of her tranquil and mesmeric chant, with Brisbane born, Hobart based Katie Yap’s viola wired for sound, the slight echo lending a cathedral-like ambience.

Yap and New Zealander keyboardist, arranger and composer Donald Nicolson are firmly established Baroque musicians, deeply immersed in HIP practices. But they also love to indulge in a little time travelling, lifting ancient works into a more modern world with Nicolson switching between traditional harpsichord and a triple-deck synthesiser set-up facing the audience, complete with effects pedals and floor controls.

Bronzewing (Katie Yap and Donald Nicolson) in the Utzon Room, Sydney Opera House. Photo © Cassandra Hannagan

For her part Yap alternates between a conventional miked-up viola and a hollowed out brand new electric five-string violin with effects. She also adds a pure...