Back in the classical music era, a four-piece band meant something very different to guitars, bass and drums. But now, modern string quartet Phoenix Collective Quartet are here to show just how hard two violins, viola and cello can rock a Sunday arvo.
Phoenix Collective is a string quartet performing concerts in Sydney, Canberra, the Central Coast and regional NSW. Its members come from the ranks of top national and international orchestras and they showcase classical and modern classical music with a uniquely Australian edge.
In 2022, they are performing four Sunday concerts designed to excite and inspire audiences with the extraordinary possibilities of the string quartet. The concerts are happening at the intimate Zenith Theatre, Chatswood.
Sunday May 15, 4pm – The Juliet Letters by Elvis Costello and the Brodsky Quartet
In 1993, Elvis Costello released one of his best albums, The Juliet Letters, with the Brodsky Quartet. The album is a catchy song cycle for strings and voice telling a range of stories by turns tragic and comic. One of Australia’s most in-demand choral specialists, tenor Dan Walker, will perform the 'letters' alongside the members of Phoenix Collective. Book now.
Sunday May 29, 4pm – The Music of Studio Ghibli by Joe Hisaishi
Japanese cult animation house Studio Ghibli holds a unique place in the hearts of film lovers whether they grew up with their works or discovered them in adulthood. Key to Ghibli's appeal is the music of composer Joe Hisaishi. Tracks from ten different movies, including Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke and My Neighbour Totoro, will be performed by Phoenix Collective in this concert that’s certain to be uplifting. Book now.
Sunday July 31, 4pm – Different Trains by Steve Reich & Traditional Folk
Steve Reich is one of the titans of minimalism and a legend of 20th century music. Different Trains is a three-movement piece for string quartet accompanied by a bespoke video created by Sina S. As a child during World War II, Reich made train journeys between New York and Los Angeles to visit his parents, who had separated. Years later, he reflected on his experience and, as a Jew, how different his train journey might have been if he had lived in Europe. The concert will include a selection of Nordic folk music arranged by the Danish String Quartet. Book now.
Sunday August 14, 4pm – Daft Punk by Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter
Formed in 1993 and disbanded in 2021, French electronic music duo Daft Punk is regarded as one of the most influential acts in dance music history. Phoenix Collective will reinterpret their iconic beats through the lens of a string quartet, with Daft Punk’s synths, drum machines and vintage vocoders translated into violin, viola and cello. Book now.
These events are part of Chatswood Culture Bites 2022, Willoughby City Council’s program of music, theatre, comedy and more in Chatswood CBD. Chatswood is a recognised Sydney dining hub, so why not grab a bite before or after the show? Zenith Theatre offers all-day free parking with your show ticket.