Profile

Innovative repertoire, dynamic interpretations of both traditional and contemporary classical music, and sheer musical chops set this threesome apart.

Violinist Justine Cormack, cellist Ashley Brown and pianist Sarah Watkins first joined forces in 2002 and were Ensemble in Residence at The University of Auckland from 2004-2009. During this time they have continued to impress music lovers throughout New Zealand, Brazil, the US and UK, China, Korea and Indonesia.

The Trio actively commissions works by leading New Zealand composers, and collaborates with musicians of diverse musical styles. In the past 12 months their commitment to commissioning and performing new music has expanded to include emerging and established composers from China, and their 2009 concert season will feature works by Chen Yi, Zhou Long, Musheng Chen and Mike Yuen. The Trio are also keen to engage in collaborations with Chinese performers, bringing about cultural exchanges between the two countries.

NZTrio’s first CD Spark (which showcased a broad range of contemporary New Zealand trio pieces) was a finalist for best Classical Album at the NZ Music Awards in 2006; their 2008 Pacific Rim-focused release Bright Tide Moving Between has also been named a finalist, receiving unanimously high praise from critics and listeners alike. Recent highlights include appearances at the Beijing Modern Music Festival, and with the Vector Wellington Orchestra (performing Gareth Farr’s Triple Concerto). In 2009 they will undertake two national tours, several festival appearances, and are planning a return to Shanghai, Sichuan, Beijing and Taipei.

• Works performed (28)
• Commissions (16)
• Events (16)
• Media On Demand (6)