Iconic chamber music group choose Monash

One of the world’s most influential chamber music groups, I Musici, has chosen the outstanding acoustic space of the Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University as part of their 60th anniversary Australian tour. 

Founded in 1952, I Musici is the oldest active chamber music group in existence. Their first performances of baroque concerti, with an ensemble of 12 musicians and no conductor, redefined the conventions for chamber music performance. A year later, the group’s historic first recording of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, which has sold more than 25 million copies, introduced this music to the world and set the tone for the group’s remarkable career. 

The group will bring their musical talents to Monash University as they perform their iconic version of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, alongside works by Rossini, Paganini and Donizetti. 

Executive Director of the Monash University Academy of Performing Arts, Dr Peter Tregear, said I Musici has redefined the way that chamber music is performed and appreciated. 

“With a repertoire spanning from 18th century to the contemporary, the ensemble remains supremely relevant while retaining its own historical integrity and character,” Dr Tregear said. 

“It is a major achievement and honour for Monash to have the opportunity to showcase the group’s brilliant musicianship.” 

“Their decision to forgo a conductor creates equilibrium among the performers that has become the model for other ensembles, like the Australian Chamber Orchestra, to emulate.” Dr Tregear said. 

The ensemble have been regular guests on the international music stage, performing in some of the world’s most prestigious theatres and concert halls including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York City; Shanghai Concert Hall, Suntory Hall in Tokyo; and the Musikverein, Vienna. 

I Musici is made up of some Italy’s finest virtuoso performers and while over the years the original members have moved on, the depth of talent of those who have taken their place has ensured that the breath-taking quality of their music-making has remained unchanged. 

The Monash concert series forms one of only four Australian tour dates by I Musici. With other performances scheduled for the Sydney Opera House and QPAC, Brisbane, their only Melbourne performance is not to be missed.

I Musici will be performing on Wednesday 22 February from 7.30pm. A pre-concert talk by Associate Professor Thomas Reiner, will take place at 6.45pm.

For further information and to purchase tickets, visit the MAPA website.