Thursday Heritage Concerts - Sauerkraut and Bonbons

In 2018, after a decade of studies in the US, pianist Justin Bird returned to NZ taking a hiatus from performing to build a studio of piano students. Now performing again - his first foray features German masterpieces by Bach, Schubert, and Schumann pitted side by side with elegant French bonbons by Chabrier and Faure for a sandwich of beautifully balanced music.

Come and enjoy the majestic Bach Toccata and Fugue in D, originally written for organ - here transcribed for piano in a fiendishly difficult transcription by Ferrucio Busoni. Followed by the evening sounds of a Nocturne by Faure - juxtaposed with Schubert's Klavierstucke written on his deathbed. A pompous minuet from Chabrier breaks the icy grave's aura leading to the finale, a charming youth-inspired collection of pieces by Schumann - Kinderszenen. Don't miss this opportunity to hear one of Tāmaki Makaurau's finest pianists cast his musical spell through the romantics and beyond.

Bookings essential as spaces are limited. We will do our best to accommodate walk ups on the day but can't guarantee entry.

The Spring Heritage Concert series 2022 is made possible through the generous support of the Auckland Libraries Heritage Trust.