Griffyn’s last concert for 2008 presents three major works of the early 20th century, all of which to some degree are both reflective and critical of the social times in which they were created. Ravel’s Tzigane is a dramatic collage of genre and style, inspired by the European gypsy tradition. Walton’s Façade, with poetry by Edith Sitwell has aquired an almost cult status since it was first performed in 1922, and both textually and musically is a witty critique of Victorian and early 20th century society. László Lajtha is unknown to most Australian musicians and audiences (due primarily to political opression), but in Hungary his work is equal to that of his contemproaries Bartók and Kodály. Marionnettes is a vibrant puppet-like work for harp strings and flute in 4 movements, using the folk traditions that Lajtha was so intent in studying.

Allen Brings – Burlette
Maurice Ravel – Tzigane arr. Sollis
Sir William Walton – Façade
László Lajtha – Marionettes
Jonathan Stephens – String Triptych mvt 2: Poco Lento

21 November 2008 @ CSIRO Discovery Centre