AMATIS Journeys
Journey of a Sculpture
This program explores the journey an artist takes when creating a sculpture. For inspiration, we studied the works and techniques of Swiss sculptor Christian Bolt, who teaches at the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno in Florence. We examine the entire process, from sourcing raw materials to uncovering the image within the rock, as we investigate how art imitates life.
The Raw Material
Joseph Haydn - Piano Trio in E major, Hob XV:28 [20mins]
"Every content has its form and every form has its material. The choice of material is a statement in itself. I don't choose marble because it is so white and pretty; I choose it because it's very old clay." - Christian Bolt
In this Haydn trio we find his material of choice is Bach. This piece showcases a blend of Baroque and Classical musical elements, as Haydn incorporates Bach's style into classical forms and broader tonal structures. The influence of Bach is especially clear in the second movement, Allegretto, which echoes elements of Bach's Italian Concerto. By drawing on Bach’s legacy, Haydn pays homage to the material of the past while simultaneously forging new musical paths, blending tradition with innovation in a distinctly personal way.
Exploration
John Bull - In Nomine VI arranged for violin, cello and piano [5mins]
John Bull was an English Renaissance composer known for his exceptional technical ability and skill as a keyboard virtuoso. He was renowned for his resourcefulness in creating new keyboard figures. Although his virtuosity is not fully showcased in this piece, it does provide insight into his remarkable talent for taking simple foundational material which he then embellishes and elaborates.
Honesty
Franz Schubert - Piano Trio No. 2 in E-flat major, D. 929 - II. Andante con moto [10mins]
"For me, authenticity is to dare to look inside and to be courageous enough to live by what you find." - Christian Bolt
Schubert's Andante con moto is renowned for its emotional honesty, deeply resonating with listeners through its solemn, unadorned expression of melancholy and introspection. The movement’s quiet power lies in its simplicity, with a stark, repeating theme that reveals sorrow and loss without striving for dramatic effect. Its haunting directness, free from excessive ornamentation or complexity, gives the music a raw, unfiltered quality, as though Schubert is exposing a deeply private emotional truth.
Reduction
Anton von Webern - Drei kleine Stücke, op. 11 for Cello and Piano [3.30mins]
Mable is a metamorphic rock, meaning it has been formed over millions of years under pressure and heat. In contrast, Webern’s Drei kleine Stücke only lasts 3 minutes. Despite its brevity, Webern’s intellectual rigour and reasoning have subjected the work to its own form of pressure and heat, distilling its contents to their most fundamental form. This is akin to sculpting, where the material is exposed to its own pressures to reveal the figure within. Webern condenses human gestures, classical forms, and harmonic development so meticulously that the third movement displays a perfectly balanced sonata form within just 11 bars of music.
Humanity
Ludwig van Beethoven’s - Piano Trio in C minor, Op. 1, No. 3 [30mins]
Beethoven’s music reflects our humanity through its mirroring of the complexities of the human experience. The work’s tension, unpredictability, rawness, and moments of lyrical beauty speak to the insecurities, joys, beauty, and uncertainties we face. Beethoven's music seeks all the aspirational qualities of classicism, yet his own human frailties bubble to the surface. His use of C minor, a key Beethoven often associated with turmoil, conveys a sense of striving against adversity, like a sculpture's struggle to tame the raw material, while the intimate dialogue between the instruments suggests the shared nature of our human journey.
Arcadia
"Arcadia," a theme evoking mythical lands, pastoral ideals, and timeless legends. Arcadia symbolises a place of pure beauty and simplicity, often imagined in the arts as a paradise lost to the modern world but preserved in memory and myth. Each piece in our programme reflects different facets of this idyllic vision, be it through nostalgia, romantic longing, or a glimpse of otherworldly beauty.
Franz Schubert - Piano Trio "Notturno" in E-flat major, D.897 [10mins]
Joseph Haydn - Piano Trio "Gypsy" in G major, Hob. XV:25 - III. Finale. Rondo all’Ongarese. [4mins]
Rebecca Clarke - Piano Trio (1921) - II. Andante molto semplice [4mins]
Franz Liszt - Elegy No.2, S131 for Cello and Piano [6mins]
Karol Szymanowski - Mythes, op.30 - I. La fontaine d'Arethuse (The Fountain of Arethusa) for Violin and Piano [5mins]
Richard Wagner - Tristan und Isolde, WWV 90 - Transfiguration (Liebestod) (Act III) arranged for Piano Trio [7mins]
--Interval--
Felix Mendelssohn – Piano Trio No. 2 in C minor, Op. 66 [30mins]
Schubert’s Notturno is a serene composition that evokes a dreamlike reverie, capturing the gentle, nocturnal qualities of an idyllic landscape where the soul finds peace in harmony with nature. In contrast, Haydn’s Gypsy Trio embodies the lively spirit of folklore, featuring energetic rhythms and melodies that transport us to a charming pastoral world and offer a glimpse into our shared folk traditions. Liszt's Elegy No.2 offers a meditative counterpart, reflective and sombre. It captures the bittersweet beauty of nostalgia for things lost yet treasured. This sense of longing intensifies with Wagner’s Liebestod from Tristan und Isolde, arranged for piano trio, where Isolde’s final, transformative moment transcends earthly boundaries, portraying love’s ultimate unity in a mythical Arcadia of the soul. We continue our journey into the world of myth with Szymanowski’s “La fontaine d'Arethuse”, which brings the Greek tale of the nymph Arethusa to life in a shimmering, impressionistic soundscape, capturing an enchanted Arcadian spring where nature and legend merge. Rebecca Clarke’s Trio offers a reflection on Arcadia’s ideals, with lyrical, folk-like melodies that weave through exploratory and rich textures, bridging the pastoral and contemporary worlds. Finally, Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio No. 2 concludes our programme with a dramatic journey that culminates in a powerful nod to the German chorale "Vor deinen Thron tret’ ich hiermit" ("Before Thy Throne, I Now Appear"). This hymn brings an almost sacred resonance to the final movement, suggesting an ultimate, spiritual Arcadia where peace and transcendence feel within reach.
Through these works, we glimpse an Arcadia preserved in music—a place where beauty, memory, and legend intersect to remind us of timeless, universal ideals.
Romantic Road
Würzburg
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach - Keyboard Trio in C Major, H. 524 [13mins]
Würzburg, known for its Baroque architecture and cultural richness, reflects the elegance and refinement present in C.P.E. Bach’s music. Though primarily active in northern Germany, C.P.E. Bach’s mastery of the empfindsamer Stil (sensitive style) parallels Würzburg's cultural prominence in the Romantic imagination as a gateway to Southern Germany’s artistic legacy.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Richard Wagner - Tristan und Isolde, WWV 90 - Transfiguration (Liebestod) (Act III) arranged for Piano Trio [7mins]
The medieval charm of Rothenburg ob der Tauber creates a fitting backdrop for Wagner’s transcendental Liebestod. His fascination with myth, legend, and romantic ideals aligns perfectly with Rothenburg’s dreamlike aura.
Augsburg
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Piano Trio in B flat major KV 502 [20mins]
Augsburg, Mozart’s father Leopold’s birthplace, holds deep familial and musical significance for Mozart. The city’s vibrant cultural scene shaped Leopold’s development and therefore, indirectly influenced Wolfgang’s early musical journey. In 1777, a 21-year-old Mozart stayed in Augsburg for a protracted period and during this time he wrote his infamous "Bäsle letters," which offer a humorous and intimate glimpse into Mozart’s personality. The lighthearted elegance of this trio reflects both Mozart's humour and the classical ideals of balance and grace, echoing the historical and cultural richness of Augsburg.
--interval--
Augsburg
Franz Liszt - Tristia - La Vallée d'Obermann S723C [15mins]
Liszt’s ancestral roots trace back to Augsburg, connecting him intimately to the city’s history. La Vallée d’Obermann, inspired by Étienne Pivert de Sénancour’s romantic novel, mirrors the emotional depth and existential longing of Liszt’s ties to the Northern Alps. Its introspective tone evokes the Romantic Road’s scenic and philosophical resonance.
Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl
Robert Schumann - Piano Trio No.3, Op. 110 [27mins]
The medieval towns of Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl, with their well-preserved walls and timeless charm, evoke the Romantic ideals of nostalgia, introspection, and a connection to history. These themes resonate deeply with the music of Robert Schumann. His Piano Trio No. 3, composed during a turbulent yet creatively rich period, embodies these ideals through its emotional contrasts, lyrical beauty, and dramatic intensity. The trio’s heartfelt melodies and intricate textures reflect the layered history of these enchanting towns.
"All Roads Lead to Rome"
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Piano Trio in C Major, K. 548 [25’]
Mozart visited Rome twice, first in 1770 and then in 1773. During his visits, he performed for Pope Clement XIV and composed several works, including the "Symphony No. 16 in C major, K. 128." Perhaps one of the most significant aspects of Mozart's visits to Rome was his exposure to the Roman school of composition. Influenced by the works of Italian composers such as Giovanni Battista Sammartini and Niccolò Jommelli, Mozart incorporated elements of the Italian style into his compositions. His time in Rome left an indelible mark on his musical development, contributing to the rich tapestry of Mozart's compositional legacy.
Lili Boulanger - D'un soir triste [11’]
Lili Boulanger, a pioneering French composer, is intimately connected to Rome through her historic win of the Prix de Rome in 1913. This significant achievement, marking her as the first woman to receive the prestigious award, granted Boulanger a residency at the Villa Medici. Despite facing health challenges, Boulanger's time associated with the Prix de Rome allowed her to explore Rome's rich cultural and artistic milieu, influencing her creative spirit. This period became transformative for Boulanger, shaping her unique musical voice and contributing to her impactful legacy in French music.
--interval--
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky - Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50 [44’]
Tchaikovsky, the Russian master of emotion, was awarded the prestigious Rubinstein Prize in Rome in 1874. His Piano Trio in A Minor, Op. 50, includes the deeply moving "Pezzo Elegiaco," a heartfelt tribute to the memory of his close friend Nikolai Rubinstein. The writing of this trio overlapped with a stay in Rome itself, a place which Tchaikovsky would visit often. Let us contemplate the intersection of Tchaikovsky's personal grief, artistic genius, and the enchanting aura of Rome, which left an indelible mark on the creation of this enduring masterpiece.
"Candide"
based on Voltaire's literary masterpiece.
Considered a masterpiece of Enlightenment literature, "Candide" is a satirical novel by Voltaire which he started writing in 1756. The story follows the journey of the protagonist, Candide, as he journeys through Europe and the Americas, encountering various characters and experiencing the darkness and absurdity of life. Along the way, Candide meets philosophers and tries to reconcile his belief in the idea that they live in "the best of all possible worlds," which was instilled in him by his mentor, Pangloss. Through his travels, Candide discovers the complexities of human existence and learns to question his optimism. Ultimately, he finds solace in the pursuit of simple pleasures and meaningful relationships. The novel is well-known for its sharp wit, biting satire, and exploration of philosophical themes.
Franz Schubert: Notturno for Piano Trio in E-flat major [10mins]
Schubert's Nocturno for Piano Trio beautifully reflects Candide's tumultuous journey through life. The contrasting A and B sections of the piece mirror the tranquillity and chaos that Candide encounters along the way. The serene A-section envelops the listener in a sense of peace and reflection, reminiscent of a still and beautiful night, much like Candide's utopian time in Westphalia. On the other hand, the intense B-section vividly portrays the tumult and conflict of Candide's experiences, echoing the pride of man and the absurd drive towards war. Through its interplay of calm and chaos, the piece encapsulates Candide's relentless quest for meaning amidst a world of absurdity and uncertainty.
Joseph Haydn: Piano Trio No. 39 in G major "Gypsy", Hob. XV/25 [15mins]
The opening of the novel Candide is set in the idyllic and utopian world of Westphalia and his tutor, Pangloss, teaches him that they live in "the best of all possible worlds." Similarly, Haydn's "Gypsy" trio brings to mind calmness, innocence, and happiness. The music reflects a simplistic optimism and pastoral feeling. The final Rondo Presto movement evokes a sense of communal joy and celebration with its lively rhythms and cheerful melodies.
Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Trio in C minor, Op.1 No.3 [30mins]
Beethoven's Opus 1 No. 3 Trio resonates with Voltaire's "Candide" through themes of conflict, coming of age, and the interplay of darkness and light. Beethoven and his mentor, Haydn, disagreed over the publishing of this piece, reflecting Beethoven's emerging independence as a composer. This coming-of-age moment parallels Candide's confrontation with authority figures. The music intertwines passages of beauty with turmoil as Beethoven establishes his unique voice, mirroring Candide's journey of self-discovery. Furthermore, this work reflects Enlightenment values through its exploration of contrasting emotions and its invitation to listeners to contemplate truth and enlightenment amidst chaos and uncertainty, echoing the philosophical themes of Voltaire's iconic tale.
—interval—
Charles Ives Piano Trio [21mins]
Candide's journey of intellectual exploration is captured in the first movement of Ives's trio as the trio engages in a musical representation of philosophers engaged in discussion from his visit to Paris. "This Scherzo is a Joke" follows and embodies the folly of life, echoing Voltaire's satirical treatment of societal absurdities. In the third movement, Ives incorporates the theme from the hymn "Rock of Ages," adding a layer of religious contemplation reflecting Candide's search for meaning amidst adversity, echoing his quest for spiritual enlightenment.
Franz Liszt: Tristia (de La Vallée d'Obermann) transcribed for Piano Trio [16mins]
"Obermann" is a novel written by the French author Étienne Senancour. It served as an inspiration for Franz Liszt's work, "de La Vallée d'Obermann". The story revolves around the protagonist Obermann, who embarks on a journey that mirrors Candide's closely. Obermann becomes disenchanted with society and seeks a simpler way of life. Liszt's music reflects Obermann's inner turmoil and his quest for meaning. The composition encourages listeners to contemplate their own search for fulfilment in an imperfect world just as Voltaire's masterpiece did back in 1756.