Work

Programme Note

Anastasis is an exploration of musical contrasts where chamber music elements of intimacy and social interplay are juxtaposed with the colour and power of a full symphonic orchestra. Baroque Concerto Grosso traditions form the conceptual basis of Anastasis: instrumental divisions within the orchestra, like the wind sections, are exploited, and new instrumental groupings have been created using combinations of individual players across the ensemble. Elements from the twentieth century Concerto for Orchestra form have also been utilised, particularly the focus on the diversity of instrumental colour, extended instrumental range and virtuosity, and the array of dynamic and textural possibilities.

“Anastasis, our first taste of the APO’s resident composer, Chris Adams, proved to be a most attractive score.

Adams knows where and how to uncover unexpected colours in a piece that enjoys jolting us with huge orchestral shouts in among more subdued, almost filigree passages.

The second movement unfolds, with woodwind patterning, from lounge-laden harmonies and Adams nods to all manner of musics throughout the piece, right through to its conga-line finale.

It is an appealing score that deserves a life beyound this single performance."

William Dart, NZ Herald 7th September, 2009
For the full article please click here

Commissioned:

Written for the Auckland Philharmonia, as part of the Composer in Residence in 2009

• Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra

Difficulty:

Advanced

Performance History

	03 Sep 2009	Performed by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and conducted by Eckehard Stier at Auckland Town Hall, Auckland
		Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra
	09 May 2011	Performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra with conductor Hamish McKeich at Wellington Town Hall, in Wellington
		Hamish McKeich    New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

Awards

• NZSO-SOUNZ Readings (2011)
  

  Anastasis by Chris Adams was performed at the NZSO-SOUNZ Readings in May 2011.