Australian National Academy of Music: Sacred: Seven Last Words
In this unique Chapel concert, Affinity Quartet are returning to Haydn, the widely acknowledged father of string quartet music as we know it, and apply their craft to the meditative sections of Seven Last Words. Each is based on an expression attributed to Christ during his crucifixion, and is bookended by a contemplative introduction and a hectic conclusion akin to an ‘earthquake’ based on Matthew 27:51: the temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom, the earth shook, and the rocks split. This ‘tearing of the veil’ symbolises humanity’s sudden access to God.
Naturally, this work was commissioned by a priest, who paid Haydn in a suitably symbolic way: sending him a cake which, when cut, was revealed to have been filled with gold coins.
Based in Melbourne, and originally comprising of musicians who all once graced the halls of ANAM, Affinity Quartet have blazed their own trail internationally, having won several competitions including the International Chamber Music Competition In 2023. They make their return to ANAM after representing Australia at Rheingau Music Festival with acclaimed violist, composer and former ANAM Artistic Director, Brett Dean, where they performed string quartet compositions by both Dean and Haydn.
Joseph HAYDN The Seven Last Words of Christ, Hob. XX:1b
Affinity Quartet:
Holly Piccoli (alum 2008) guest violin
Nicholas Waters (alum 2016) violin
Josef Hanna (alum 2021) viola
Mee Na Lojewski (alum 2014) cello
ANAM String Quartets
Duration: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (no interval)
The Good Shepherd Chapel (next to Abbotsford Convent), 1 St Heliers St, ABBOTSFORD VIC
TICKETS: A Little Extra $65.00; Standard $45.00; A Little Less $25.00; Companion Card Holders $0.00