"Duet" - Violin & Cello Recital 

You might be surprised by the incredible range these two instruments can achieve. From Baroque and Classical to Romantic and 20th-century music and beyond, this program offers a fresh and intimate perspective on chamber music. You'll experience the charm of early string quartets by Joseph Haydn and the almost orchestral richness of Kodály. This is a unique opportunity to witness the violin and the cello—Australia's favourite instrument—showcasing their peak capabilities in a program designed to deliver sincere musical elation.

SXS presents DUET: A recital of passion, elegance, and fiery dialogue between two of the world’s most expressive instruments. Australia voted cello as its number 1 instrument, let’s see what you think as violin and cello combine together and duel it out!!!

Internationally acclaimed Hungarian cellist György Deri joins violinist and SXS Co-Artistic Director Margaret (Maggie) Blades for a program that moves effortlessly from timeless classics to vibrant folk-inspired gems.

Program highlights:

• Bach’s iconic Prelude from the Cello Suite No. 1 – music of pure serenity.
• Kodály’s Duo for Violin and Cello – a tour de force of Hungarian passion and intensity.
• Bartók’s Folk Dances – bursting with color, rhythm, and spirit.
• The wit and elegance of Haydn – Classical brilliance at its finest.

PROGRAM LIST:

Together, Deri and Blades bring a dynamic partnership to the stage, weaving a concert of lyricism, virtuosity, and sheer joy in music-making.

* **Bach:** Prelude from Solo Cello Suite No. 1
* **Handel - Halvorssen:** Passacaglia for Violin and Cello
* **Haydn:** Sonata III (No. 2) arranged for Violin and Cello
* **Kodály:** Duo for Violin and Cello, opus 7, Movement 1
* **Bartók:** Selection of Duos for Violin and Cello
* **César Cui:** Orientale 

This concert is brought to you by Southern Cross Soloists, “One of Queensland’s foremost chamber ensembles." - Dr Gemma Regan (Limelight, June 2025) - celebrating 30 years this year, with Birdhouse Cafe.

Yo-Yo Ma performing the Prelude from Bach’s Cello Suite below:

https://youtu.be/1prweT95Mo0?si=tOZMc4dpYggKtTP8