The theme for The Marais Project’s 15^th anniversary year is Re-imaginings.  During the year we are taking the opportunity to re-imagine the viola da gamba in a range of settings from Rameau and Marais to world and improvised music. After I formed The Marais Project in 2000, the term “project” quickly evolved to mean more than just the idea of playing all the works of Marin Marais and other similar music for the viols – which was and is the key focus of the ensemble. As my musical tastes developed it was natural that the group should also expand into “side projects”. I am attracted to improvised music and several years ago The Marais Project worked with Kevin Hunt, a wonderful jazz pianist and composer. My relationship with performer/composers Paul Cutlan, Steve Hunter and Matt McMahon has grown naturally from conversations at jazz gigs and other meetings to become more formal collaborations. As for my son Siebe Pogson, well I have known him from birth (so to speak!). I am proud to perform one of his pieces today and to appear alongside him. Special thanks also go to Ray Harvey for his contribution to this concert and for the time he has put into learning the Marais and Paul Cutlan’s music with me. To those who have attended our concerts over the years, thank you for your support. We have exciting things planned for next year including the release of our CD of Swedish baroque and folk music (along with a little Marais!). Until 2015…

Jenny Eriksson, Founder and Director, The Marais Project

Program

Marin Marais (1656 – 1728) Suite in E minor from Pièces de viole, book 5, 1725

–          Prelude

–          Allemande La Beuron

–          Sarabande

–          Gavotte La Mignone

–          Menuet I & II

–          Rondeau La Plaisant

Paul Cutlan (1964- ) – Spinning Forth – a suite for viola da gamba and harpsichord (world premiere)

–          I Prelude

–          II Slow and Sustained – quasi Sarabande

–          III With Rustic Energy

Piano Solo by Matt McMahon – Country And

Matt McMahon (1971 – ) (world premiere)

–          At Carna

Siebe Pogson (1992 – ) – Dark Dreaming (world premiere)

Matt McMahon (world premiere)

–          For Thomas Wyatt

Steve Hunter (1960 – ) – Three Rivers (arranged by Matt McMahon)

Guy Strazz (1955 – ) – Zawi (ode to Joe Zawinul) (arranged by Matt McMahon)

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“Re-Imaginings”

Date:            Sunday 26^th October, 2014

Time:            3.00pm to 4.15pm; complementary drinks are served

Venue:          Sydney Conservatorium, Macquarie St, Sydney

Cost:              $35/20; online www.maraisproject.com.au; ph 02 9809 5185