Directed by Dr Erin Helyard from the keyboard to finish the year, we venture to the dramatic side of C.P.E. Bach and Haydn. The program contains four works reflecting the 18th century ‘storm and stress’ movement. Often discussed in the context of literature, such musical works are commonly in minor keys and exhibit dramatic characteristics.

C.P.E. Bach’s Flute Concerto in D minor, one of his most virtuosic and colourful, will showcase the exquisite and pure sounds of Australia’s leading period instrument flautist, Melissa Farrow. The Harpsichord Concerto in D major will be performed by our esteemed colleague, Dr Erin Helyard, preceeded by a stormy Sinfonia in E minor.

As the finale of our 2016 season, we present Haydn’s Symphony No. 49 ’The Passion’. His only orchestral work in the key of F minor, this piece illuminates the darker side of an otherwise sunny composer.