‘A Program of Firsts’

Peter Roennfeldt and Friends presents a special recital of chamber music featuring the historic Streicher piano. This fine instrument, built in 1843 in Vienna, is ideal for music of this period. Its tonal warmth and clarity provides a rare opportunity to hear the works of early 19th century composers in a new light.

This program of ‘firsts’ comprises works by like-minded composers – Mendelssohn, Schumann and Gade. They became friends and colleagues in Leipzig, Germany, during the late 1830s and early 1840s. While they shared a similar musical outlook, each has their own ‘voice’.

Both Felix Mendelssohn and Neils Gade made their chamber music debut with a piano trio, but for different ensemble combinations. Mendelssohn was just 11 years of age when in 1820 he produced his Trio in C minor for piano, violin and viola. Gade was in his early ’20s and on the verge of a major career break when, in 1839, he composed his single movement Trio in B flat major for piano, violin and cello.

Both these musicians were friends and colleagues of Robert Schumann when they were based in Leipzig, in the early 1840s. Schumann was already a well-established composer when, in 1842, he produced his his renowned Piano Quintet in E flat Opus 44. But this work set a new precedent in partnering a full string quartet with piano. Many composers then followed this example.

A quartet of well-known string players – violinists Margaret Connolly and Wayne Brennan, violist Nicholas Tomkin and cellist Daniel Curro – joins pianist Peter Roennfeldt for this special performance. It takes place at the Ian Hanger Recital Hall of Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, 140 Grey Street South Bank, on Saturday 16 August 2025 at 6pm. The program lasts approximately 70 minutes, with no interval.

Bookings are through QTIX on (07) 136 246 or online at qtix.com.au

For further information, send an email by clicking here, or write to info@peterroennfeldt.com