Classical treat for music lovers

Enjoy masterpieces by Beethoven and Mozart performed by a small group of musicians at the ongoing three-day chamber music festival

There’s something about the intimate setting of a chamber music performance that distinguishes it from other classical recitals. Performed by a small group of musicians, these concerts are more conversational in nature.

“I think chamber music can be described as music for friends because all the performers on stage are pals. The chemistry they share makes the performance unique. This also helps them connects to their audience,” says Gauthier Herrmann, a popular French cellist, who will be performing tonight as part of the Arties Festival at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA).

He, in collaboration with NCPA, founded the bi-annual festival in 2008.

The ongoing 10th edition will witness musicians performing classic pieces by Beethoven, Mozart, Mendelssohn Shostakovich and Debussy, among others. “It will also feature the fine soprano, Karen Vourc’h, who made such a strong impression last season,” says Khushroo Suntook, chairman, NCPA. Besides Vourc’h, other artistes who will take to the stage include Hugues Borsarello and Mathilde Herrmann on violins, Nicolas Bône and Marie Chilemme on the viola, Gauthier Herrmann on cello and Claudine Simon on the piano.

“What I love about this festival is the strong link we have built with Indians. I feel happy when people send us messages and this, for me, is a very special time in our yearly schedule,” says Herrmann.

Compositions that will be performed today include Beethoven, Op. 47 Kreutzer Shostakovich and Op. 127 Mozart. The festival will conclude on November 29 with Debussy: String Quartet Op. 10.