The arts in isolation

ONLINE CONCERT: The lockdown meant the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra couldn't go ahead with the free concert it planned to screen online, so it has adapted its programme to present live performances on a small screen near you. Picture supplied

While we are in lockdown, The Guide will continue to report artistic pursuits, like the more solitary ones such as writing, visual arts — and home entertainment such as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra's initiative.

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) has adapted its plan to live-stream a free performance that played live last night to meet the new Covid-19 restrictions. The concert can still be viewed online.

NZSO concertmaster Vesa-Matti Leppanen and several section principals filmed themselves at home each playing one of their favourite pieces of music. Pianist Stephen De Pledge, who performed with the NZSO earlier this month, has also been filmed playing one of JS Bach's Goldberg Variations.

Wellington-based audio visual company Latitude Creative is editing the at-home performances, along with De Pledge on piano, into one video performance.

The NZSO had planned to present a livestream performance of Bach's Goldberg Variations in its entirety with the orchestra's players performing together at a Wellington venue. Play Our Part will still be predominately works by Bach.

Music remains a vital force at this time, said NZSO interim chief executive Peter Biggs.

“It can bring us together and lift our spirits. While NZSO players and staff players are at home, they will still be active as technology means we can still connect to make music and present it to the nation.”

Play Our Part premiered at at 7.30pm last night and can be viewed via smart TV, mobile phone, tablet or computer.

Bach’s Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 I. Aria.

Bach’s Violin Partita No.2 in D minor, BWV 1004 III. Sarabande, IV. Gigue.

El cant dels ocells.

Bach’s Partita in A Minor for solo flute, BWV 1013 III. Sarabande, IV. Bourrée anglaise.

Bach’s Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 I. Aria.