Inspired by the monumental Goldberg Variations by J.S. Bach and the visceral Bachianas Brasileiras no. 5 by H. Villa-Lobos, this programme is an exploration of the emotive qualities of art song and its adaptation to instrumental music. The trio also plays several other works that range from the lyrical Playford Suite to the energetic Erlkönig by Schubert, demonstrating the striking similarities between stringed instruments and the human voice.

About the Gqeberha String Trio

After a noteworthy induction at St. Mary’s Cathedral in April of 2021 and following a hugely successful tour of the Garden Route the Gqeberha String Trio performed at the National Arts Festival and the Ama Zing Addo festivals, reinventing the conventional string trio with the inclusion of the double bass.

In a programme that seamlessly weaves together the unconventional combination of violin (David Bester), viola (Jan-Hendrik Harley) and double bass (Mariechen Meyer), the Gqeberha String Trio takes listeners on an exploration of the humble art song: music inspired by song as well as arrangements of art songs. The diverse works chosen for this programme compliments the singing quality of each of the instruments and is sure to entice the senses.