A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

Tuesday 27 July, 6.30pm
Detached Gallery, The Old Mercury Building
91-93 Macquarie St, Hobart
Duration 150 minutes (approx), including concert, wine and canapés

All tickets $150
Capacity very limited

Music, wine and canapés for an audience of 25

Join the Australian String Quartet and share an exclusive evening of exquisite music, wine and canapés at Detached Cultural Organisation in Hobart’s Old Mercury Building.

Engage with ASQ musicians throughout this hyper intimate evening, and experience unprecedented audible proximity to the sublime set of 18th Century Guadagnini instruments, generously on loan to the ASQ for their exclusive use, through UKARIA.

With an extremely small capacity, this exclusive ASQ event will sell out quickly.

Friday 23 July, 11am (includes Devonshire Tea)
UKARIA Cultural Centre, Peramangk Country

Single tickets
Adult $50
Concession $45
Student $25

BUY TICKETS

Presented in association with UKARIA Cultural Centre

Pavel Fischer String Quartet No. 3 Mad Piper
Robert Schumann String Quartet in A, Op. 41 No. 3

Throughout his life, Schumann penned only three string quartets, each composed quickly in 1842, his ‘year of chamber music’. The A major Op. 41 quartet – dedicated to his contemporary and friend Felix Mendelssohn – was written after an intense period studying the quartets of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven. Schumann’s reverence for their craft is echoed through his use of formal structure and rhythmic interplay, but the intensely pained beauty and tenderness of melody and harmony is utterly his own.

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer’s third String Quartet – the Mad Piper – takes its name from the bravery and heroism of Scottish legend Bill Millin, who led troops into battle during World War II with nothing but his bagpipes and a knife. This exhilarating quartet blends the traditions of folk and western art music with seamless ease, and draws life from the ancient tunes of Scotland and Southeast Europe to create an explosive and engaging start to this program.

Running time approx 60 minutes, no interval

A Res $55
A Res Concession $50
B Res $45
B Res Concession $40

Bushfires, desert sand and heritage entwine in an evening of music with William Barton and the Australian String Quartet (ASQ).

The ARIA-winning digeridoo player and composer will reunite with the Adelaide-based ASQ for a program inspired by the land and its stories, featuring music composed by Barton himself.

Along with works from Australian composers Peter Sculthorpe, Sarah Hopkins and a world premiere from Natalie Williams, Barton and the ASQ will also perform the score to their seminal collaboration Square Circles Beneath the Red Desert Sand. The work draws on the spirits of Barton’s homeland on Kalkadunga Country (Mt Isa) and seeks out the common resonances between two musical traditions that evolved on opposite sides of the world.

This work will also appear as the soundtrack to Square Circles VR

Wednesday 30 June 2021
Venue TBC, 8:30pm

Tickets $95

Join us for a special post-concert dinner at Blondie Bar, as we celebrate ASQ Viola Stephen King who steps into the new role of ASQ Director of Learning and Engagement in the second half of the year. This is also your opportunity to welcome new ASQ Cello, Michael Dahlenburg.

This post-concert dinner provides you the opportunity to dine with the quartet for a special two-course meal, with matched wines courtesy of ASQ National Wine Partner, Voyager Estate. 

Tickets extremely limited.

Béla Bartók, String Quartet no 3
Felix Mendelssohn, String Quartet no 1 in E flat major op 12
Pavel Fischer, String Quartet no 3 Mad Piper

Courage, boldness and revitalisation underpin this program which features Felix Mendelssohn’s operatic vigour, Pavel Fischer’s depiction of a rousing call-to-arms and Béla Bartók’s fresh take on string quartet writing.

As an early ethnomusicologist, Bartók dedicated his life to cataloguing folk music from across central Europe. This research heavily influenced his writing which, mixed with an unmistakable Beethovien zeal, lead to a revitalisation of string quartet writing. Bartók’s third string quartet exemplifies this in one continuous movement, brimming with inventive string techniques that create a diversity of colours and emotions.

Mendelssohn wrote the Opus 12 string quartet before his twentieth birthday. His young, opera-addicted mind dials up the drama and beauty of this piece, while the popular Canzonetta movement exemplifies the cheeky Puck-like passagework associated with his Octet, and music from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer was inspired by the courage of Scottish piper Bill Millin who on D-Day, marched on Normandy beach, rallying the troops with his bagpipes. This incredible quartet seamlessly blends traditions of folk music and western art, creating an explosive and exhilarating end to this program.

Join us for this special concert which celebrates ASQ Viola Stephen King, before he moves to his new role as ASQ’s Director of Learning and Engagement, and welcomes new ASQ Cello Michael Dahlenburg.

We’re excited to present the premiere of a new work by acclaimed Australian didgeridoo player and composer, William Barton. 

The sound of this majestic instrument will fill the Concert Hall with the World Premiere of Apii Thatini Mu Murtu (To sing and carry a coolamon on country together). 

This performance will also features Verdi's Overture to La forza del destino and the mighty Fifth Symphony by Sibelius. 

There is a tale that the finale of this Finnish masterpiece was inspired by the call of swans. That may well be true, but the journey this musical work takes you on transcends any simple explanation. It’s otherworldly, beautiful and triumphant - all in one package. It feels as if it comes from the icy landscapes of Finland and yet the music is universal.

* Guest Principal Cellist

We’re excited to present the premiere of a new work by acclaimed Australian didgeridoo player and composer, William Barton. 

The sound of this majestic instrument will fill the Concert Hall with the World Premiere of Apii Thatini Mu Murtu (To sing and carry a coolamon on country together). 

This performance will also features Verdi's Overture to La forza del destino and the mighty Fifth Symphony by Sibelius. 

There is a tale that the finale of this Finnish masterpiece was inspired by the call of swans. That may well be true, but the journey this musical work takes you on transcends any simple explanation. It’s otherworldly, beautiful and triumphant - all in one package. It feels as if it comes from the icy landscapes of Finland and yet the music is universal.

* Guest Principal Cellist

Béla Bartók, String Quartet no 3
Felix Mendelssohn, String Quartet no 1 in E flat major op 12
Pavel Fischer, String Quartet no 3 Mad Piper

Courage, boldness and revitalisation underpin this program which features Felix Mendelssohn’s operatic vigour, Pavel Fischer’s depiction of a rousing call-to-arms and Béla Bartók’s fresh take on string quartet writing.

As an early ethnomusicologist, Bartók dedicated his life to cataloguing folk music from across central Europe. This research heavily influenced his writing which, mixed with an unmistakable Beethovien zeal, lead to a revitalisation of string quartet writing. Bartók’s third string quartet exemplifies this in one continuous movement, brimming with inventive string techniques that create a diversity of colours and emotions.

Mendelssohn wrote the Opus 12 string quartet before his twentieth birthday. His young, opera-addicted mind dials up the drama and beauty of this piece, while the popular Canzonetta movement exemplifies the cheeky Puck-like passagework associated with his Octet, and music from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer was inspired by the courage of Scottish piper Bill Millin who on D-Day, marched on Normandy beach, rallying the troops with his bagpipes. This incredible quartet seamlessly blends traditions of folk music and western art, creating an explosive and exhilarating end to this program.

Join us for this special concert which celebrates ASQ Viola Stephen King, before he moves to his new role as ASQ’s Director of Learning and Engagement, and welcomes new ASQ Cello Michael Dahlenburg.

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

Sunday 13 June, 4pm
James Theatre
6 Brown St, Dungog
Running time approx 70 minutes, no interval

All tickets $45
Under 30 $30

BOOK NOW

Béla Bartók, String Quartet no 3
Felix Mendelssohn, String Quartet no 1 in E flat major op 12
Pavel Fischer, String Quartet no 3 Mad Piper

Courage, boldness and revitalisation underpin this Australian String Quartet program which features Felix Mendelssohn’s operatic vigour, Pavel Fischer’s depiction of a rousing call-to-arms and Béla Bartók’s fresh take on string quartet writing.

As an early ethnomusicologist, Bartók dedicated his life to cataloguing folk music from across central Europe. This research heavily influenced his writing which, mixed with an unmistakable Beethovien zeal, lead to a revitalisation of string quartet writing. Bartók’s third string quartet exemplifies this in one continuous movement, brimming with inventive string techniques that create a diversity of colours and emotions.

Mendelssohn wrote the Opus 12 string quartet before his twentieth birthday. His young, opera-addicted mind dials up the drama and beauty of this piece, while the popular Canzonetta movement exemplifies the cheeky Puck-like passagework associated with his Octet, and music from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer was inspired by the courage of Scottish piper Bill Millin who on D-Day, marched on Normandy beach, rallying the troops with his bagpipes. This incredible quartet seamlessly blends traditions of folk music and western art, creating an explosive and exhilarating end to this program.

Join us for this special concert which celebrates ASQ Viola Stephen King, before he moves to his new role as ASQ’s Director of Learning and Engagement, and welcomes new ASQ Cello Michael Dahlenburg.

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

Béla Bartók, String Quartet no 3
Felix Mendelssohn, String Quartet no 1 in E flat major op 12
Pavel Fischer, String Quartet no 3 Mad Piper

Courage, boldness and revitalisation underpin this program which features Felix Mendelssohn’s operatic vigour, Pavel Fischer’s depiction of a rousing call-to-arms and Béla Bartók’s fresh take on string quartet writing.

As an early ethnomusicologist, Bartók dedicated his life to cataloguing folk music from across central Europe. This research heavily influenced his writing which, mixed with an unmistakable Beethovien zeal, lead to a revitalisation of string quartet writing. Bartók’s third string quartet exemplifies this in one continuous movement, brimming with inventive string techniques that create a diversity of colours and emotions.

Mendelssohn wrote the Opus 12 string quartet before his twentieth birthday. His young, opera-addicted mind dials up the drama and beauty of this piece, while the popular Canzonetta movement exemplifies the cheeky Puck-like passagework associated with his Octet, and music from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer was inspired by the courage of Scottish piper Bill Millin who on D-Day, marched on Normandy beach, rallying the troops with his bagpipes. This incredible quartet seamlessly blends traditions of folk music and western art, creating an explosive and exhilarating end to this program.

Join us for this special concert which celebrates ASQ Viola Stephen King, before he moves to his new role as ASQ’s Director of Learning and Engagement, and welcomes new ASQ Cello Michael Dahlenburg.

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

A visceral and thrilling exploration of the juxtaposition of beauty and devastation, Sydney Dance Company’s full-length work, Impermanence is Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation, with music written by Bryce Dessner, performed live by the Australian String Quartet.

Contemporary composer, Bryce Dessner has created a new score full of emotional power. Best known as a founder of American rock band The National and for his film scores for The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner was initially inspired by the tragedy of the Australian bush fires and the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. The full power of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble is joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet. This is an epic, driven performance that packs an emotional punch.

When COVID-19 struck in March 2020, Impermanence was only four days from its world premiere and opening night. After a tumultuous year, Sydney Dance Company bring it to the stage for the first time in 2021, now with added poignancy.

Experience the power of dance and music performed live together, laden with meaning, fleeting and vulnerable and from devastation, find energy, urgency, radiance and hope.

The Sydney and Australian national performances of Impermanence are presented in association with the Australian String Quartet. Bryce Dessner’s music composition Impermanence is commissioned by the Australian String Quartet and Sydney Dance Company. This commission has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Choreographer: Rafael Bonachela
Composer: Bryce Dessner
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Stage Designer: David Fleischer
Costume Designer: Aleisa Jelbart

Australian String Quartet:
Dale Barltrop – Violin
Francesca Hiew – Violin
Stephen King – Viola
Michael Dahlenburg – Cello

“It is timely that Impermanence takes to the stage when our world is rocked by so much uncertainty. We reflected on how easily things fall apart, even structures we imagine to be eternal, but also the fragility and impermanence of human life, the planet and human relationships. This transience, so fleeting and vulnerable is the perfect subject for live performance.” – Rafael Bonachela

Béla Bartók, String Quartet no 3
Felix Mendelssohn, String Quartet no 1 in E flat major op 12
Pavel Fischer, String Quartet no 3 Mad Piper

Courage, boldness and revitalisation underpin this program which features Felix Mendelssohn’s operatic vigour, Pavel Fischer’s depiction of a rousing call-to-arms and Béla Bartók’s fresh take on string quartet writing.

As an early ethnomusicologist, Bartók dedicated his life to cataloguing folk music from across central Europe. This research heavily influenced his writing which, mixed with an unmistakable Beethovien zeal, lead to a revitalisation of string quartet writing. Bartók’s third string quartet exemplifies this in one continuous movement, brimming with inventive string techniques that create a diversity of colours and emotions.

Mendelssohn wrote the Opus 12 string quartet before his twentieth birthday. His young, opera-addicted mind dials up the drama and beauty of this piece, while the popular Canzonetta movement exemplifies the cheeky Puck-like passagework associated with his Octet, and music from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer was inspired by the courage of Scottish piper Bill Millin who on D-Day, marched on Normandy beach, rallying the troops with his bagpipes. This incredible quartet seamlessly blends traditions of folk music and western art, creating an explosive and exhilarating end to this program.

Join us for this special concert which celebrates ASQ Viola Stephen King, before he moves to his new role as ASQ’s Director of Learning and Engagement, and welcomes new ASQ Cello Michael Dahlenburg.

Presented by DreamBig Children’s Festival in association with Australian String Quartet and Sandpit

Ludwig Van Beethoven still stands as one of the world’s greatest composers, but this isn’t all about him. We want to hear from you! 

Are you quirky, or comical? Do you like fast racing cars, or walking slowly along the beach? In this special, hands-on, live music event you will learn about some of the marvellous music the great composer wrote, and then decide for yourself which of Beethoven’s musical works we will perform for you!

Image credit: Chris Edser
Project Ludwig is a collaboration between Australian String Quartet and experience design studio, Sandpit. Listening installation partner, URTEXT Stringed Instruments.

Presented by DreamBig Children’s Festival in association with Australian String Quartet and Sandpit

Ludwig Van Beethoven still stands as one of the world’s greatest composers, but this isn’t all about him. We want to hear from you! 

Are you quirky, or comical? Do you like fast racing cars, or walking slowly along the beach? In this special, hands-on, live music event you will learn about some of the marvellous music the great composer wrote, and then decide for yourself which of Beethoven’s musical works we will perform for you!

Image credit: Chris Edser
Project Ludwig is a collaboration between Australian String Quartet and experience design studio, Sandpit. Listening installation partner, URTEXT Stringed Instruments.

Presented by DreamBig Children’s Festival in association with Australian String Quartet and Sandpit

Ludwig Van Beethoven still stands as one of the world’s greatest composers, but this isn’t all about him. We want to hear from you! 

Are you quirky, or comical? Do you like fast racing cars, or walking slowly along the beach? In this special, hands-on, live music event you will learn about some of the marvellous music the great composer wrote, and then decide for yourself which of Beethoven’s musical works we will perform for you!

Image credit: Chris Edser
Project Ludwig is a collaboration between Australian String Quartet and experience design studio, Sandpit. Listening installation partner, URTEXT Stringed Instruments.

Presented by DreamBig Children’s Festival in association with Australian String Quartet and Sandpit

Ludwig Van Beethoven still stands as one of the world’s greatest composers, but this isn’t all about him. We want to hear from you! 

Are you quirky, or comical? Do you like fast racing cars, or walking slowly along the beach? In this special, hands-on, live music event you will learn about some of the marvellous music the great composer wrote, and then decide for yourself which of Beethoven’s musical works we will perform for you!

Image credit: Chris Edser
Project Ludwig is a collaboration between Australian String Quartet and experience design studio, Sandpit. Listening installation partner, URTEXT Stringed Instruments.

Béla Bartók, String Quartet no 3
Felix Mendelssohn, String Quartet no 1 in E flat major op 12
Pavel Fischer, String Quartet no 3 Mad Piper

Courage, boldness and revitalisation underpin this program which features Felix Mendelssohn’s operatic vigour, Pavel Fischer’s depiction of a rousing call-to-arms and Béla Bartók’s fresh take on string quartet writing.

As an early ethnomusicologist, Bartók dedicated his life to cataloguing folk music from across central Europe. This research heavily influenced his writing which, mixed with an unmistakable Beethovien zeal, lead to a revitalisation of string quartet writing. Bartók’s third string quartet exemplifies this in one continuous movement, brimming with inventive string techniques that create a diversity of colours and emotions.

Mendelssohn wrote the Opus 12 string quartet before his twentieth birthday. His young, opera-addicted mind dials up the drama and beauty of this piece, while the popular Canzonetta movement exemplifies the cheeky Puck-like passagework associated with his Octet, and music from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Moravian violinist and composer Pavel Fischer was inspired by the courage of Scottish piper Bill Millin who on D-Day, marched on Normandy beach, rallying the troops with his bagpipes. This incredible quartet seamlessly blends traditions of folk music and western art, creating an explosive and exhilarating end to this program.

Join us for this special concert which celebrates ASQ Viola Stephen King, before he moves to his new role as ASQ’s Director of Learning and Engagement, and welcomes new ASQ Cello Michael Dahlenburg.