ShareThis

Monday 6 January 2014

Rainforest recitals at Scenic World, Blue Mountains


Scenic World to host holiday Rainforest Recital series


Immerse yourself in a peaceful ancient rainforest setting and enjoy live classical music as part of Scenic World's Rainforest Recital series over the holidays.

As part of Scenic World's Summer program, performances of cello, and violin and guitar will be staged on the Jamison Valley rainforest floor, including the world premiere of Rainforest Cello Sonata composed especially for the Jurassic landscape.

Descend into the valley on the Scenic Cableway and take the easy stroll along the elevated boardwalk to the sheltered Rainforest Room where 100 guests can enjoy hour-long recitals before meeting the musicians at the Terrace Café.

The first program in the series is presented by accomplished arranger, composer and musician Georg Mertens on a cello crafted in Italy c 1740. On Thursday 23 January and Saturday 22 February at 1.15pm, Mertens will perform pieces ranging from ancient medieval tunes over Bach's Prelude in G to famous Romantic character pieces like The Swan, to the remarkable Didgeridoo for solo cello.  The recital includes the Rainforest Cello Sonata composed by Mertens specifically in response to the pristine rainforest setting, depicting mist, storm and bird calls.

The second of the series is by Paganini Duo on Saturday 8 February at 1.15pm, which explores an interplay of dramatic Romantic Gypsy music from Russia, Romania and Hungary including the famous Black Eyes and Czardas alternating with atmospheric South American pieces such as El Condor Pasa from the Andes, and slow Argentinian tangos. The duo ensemble includes violinist Gustaw Szelski and guitarist Georg Mertens, renowned for their vibrant and atmospheric performances. Szelski plays a violin crafted in 1740 by Tomasso Balestrieri (Cremona, Italy) and Mertens a guitar crafted in 2012 by Miguel Lopez (Granada, Spain).

All tickets to the recitals cost $58, and includes a return trip on the Scenic Cableway. Bookings are essential and can be made by calling Scenic World on 02 4780 0250.

Book Your Travel with Wego