Mozart, Beethoven and others
Date: 10/08/2025
Time: 15:00
Join us for an enchanting chamber music concert featuring acclaimed cellist Tomas Hurnik and pianist Gabriel Baird.
This concert program offers a rich journey through the Classical and Romantic traditions, showcasing the evolution of expressive depth and instrumental dialogue. We begin with Mozart’s Piano Sonata in A major, K. 331, whose elegance and charm culminate in the lively “Turkish March.” Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No. 2 follows, highlighting his early innovation in treating cello and piano as equal partners in a bold, dramatic conversation. Schubert’s Impromptu in E-flat brings a moment of lyrical reflection, its gentle flow embodying his gift for melody and emotional nuance. The program concludes with Brahms’s powerful Cello Sonata No. 2, a work of sweeping passion and intricate interplay, representing the Romantic spirit at its most mature and expressive.
Gabriel Baird is a versatile pianist and bassoonist based in Christchurch, known for his dynamic musicianship and creative flair. A regular performer with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, he also serves as an accompanist and musical director for a range of local choirs and ensembles. Gabriel brings a fresh and imaginative approach to every performance, earning a reputation as one of the region’s most inspiring young musicians.
Tomas Hurnik brings a wealth of international experience to the stage, with a distinguished career performing with leading Czech symphonies, recording for radio and television, and earning accolades in chamber music competitions. He has performed with prestigious ensembles including the Talich Chamber Orchestra, and toured extensively across Europe with renowned period instrument groups such as Musica Florea, Capella Regia Prague, and Solamente Naturali. Now based in New Zealand, Tomas continues to share his passion for Baroque music through concerts, workshops, and masterclasses. His commitment to historically informed performance and his expressive, authentic playing make him a standout voice in early music today.
Ticket price $30
Children (under 12) $10
Ticket sales also at the door before the concert – cash only
This concert program offers a rich journey through the Classical and Romantic traditions, showcasing the evolution of expressive depth and instrumental dialogue. We begin with Mozart’s Piano Sonata in A major, K. 331, whose elegance and charm culminate in the lively “Turkish March.” Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No. 2 follows, highlighting his early innovation in treating cello and piano as equal partners in a bold, dramatic conversation. Schubert’s Impromptu in E-flat brings a moment of lyrical reflection, its gentle flow embodying his gift for melody and emotional nuance. The program concludes with Brahms’s powerful Cello Sonata No. 2, a work of sweeping passion and intricate interplay, representing the Romantic spirit at its most mature and expressive.
Gabriel Baird is a versatile pianist and bassoonist based in Christchurch, known for his dynamic musicianship and creative flair. A regular performer with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, he also serves as an accompanist and musical director for a range of local choirs and ensembles. Gabriel brings a fresh and imaginative approach to every performance, earning a reputation as one of the region’s most inspiring young musicians.
Tomas Hurnik brings a wealth of international experience to the stage, with a distinguished career performing with leading Czech symphonies, recording for radio and television, and earning accolades in chamber music competitions. He has performed with prestigious ensembles including the Talich Chamber Orchestra, and toured extensively across Europe with renowned period instrument groups such as Musica Florea, Capella Regia Prague, and Solamente Naturali. Now based in New Zealand, Tomas continues to share his passion for Baroque music through concerts, workshops, and masterclasses. His commitment to historically informed performance and his expressive, authentic playing make him a standout voice in early music today.
Ticket price $30
Children (under 12) $10
Ticket sales also at the door before the concert – cash only
Location:St Andrews Presbyterian Church, 5 Henry Street, Blenheim Central, Blenheim 7201
