Music / Archduke Trio, Canberra Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series. At Gandel Hall, NGA, October 11. Reviewed by LEN POWER

A rare musical gem was followed in this concert by a monumental classic.

In the 19^th century, Emilie Mayer composed eight symphonies, a piano concerto, at least 15 concert overtures and as many as 14 string quartets.

A review of one of her works in 1878 described her as a “rare phenomenon” but an exception to the rule that writing orchestral works was “the domain of the creative male intellect”. No wonder her music was largely forgotten! It’s good to see that her work has received renewed attention during the 21^st century.

Introduced by New Zealand violinist, Amalia Hall, Mayer’s Notturno for violin and piano in D minor, Op.48, andante, proved to be a lyrical, sensitive work with a peacefully flowing narrative from the basic theme, presenting new angles of vision in its development.

It was given a finely sensitive performance of great beauty by Hall and Edward Neeman, piano. It made you wish that more unknown works of quality by women of that era could be discovered.

Beethoven’s monumental Archduke, the piano trio in B Flat major, Op. 97, followed with Patrick Suthers, cello, joining Hall and Neeman. Suthers gave a very entertaining introduction to the work, noting that Beethoven must have been in a surprisingly good mood when he composed it.

In four movements, the trio commenced with a sunny piano melody soon taken up and embellished by the violin and the cello. It was playful, dramatic, and melodic but also with a sense of grandeur.

The second movement, unexpectedly a Scherzo, was darker and a good contrast to the first movement. The tranquil third movement started reverently and then quietly proceeded with several delicate variations. It led directly into the joyous fourth movement, a rondo, returning to the sunny main theme and bringing the work to a triumphant close.

The artists met the challenges of the work superbly. Their highly sensitive performance of the third movement was the highlight of this memorable concert.

News all day, every day at CityNews.com.au.