Ensemble in Residence with the MSO, Melbourne Ensemble perform works close to their hearts ranging from Bach arranged by the ensembles own to Carl Nielsen, recorded at the Primrose Potter Salon. Described by the composer as a “humorous trifle”, Nielsen’s Serenata in vano is an inviting opening: ‘first the gentlemen play … to lure the fair one out onto the balcony’. Next, one of Bach’s most popular cantatas ‘Awake, calls the voice to us’ in a beautiful arrangement by double bassist Stephen Newton, an invigoration of Bach’s writing with the textures and colour of the Melbourne Ensemble. Although not the most famous of the Kreutzer’s, Conradin’s Grand Septet is a work overflowing with virtuosity and lyricism. Lastly, the Andante from Aldophe Blanc’s Septet in E: spacious, rich, and melodious, this music is a perfect and soothing finale. FEATURING Freya Franzen, violin Chris Cartlide, viola Rachael Tobin, cello Stephen Newton, double bass Philip Arkinstall, clarinet Jack Schiller, bassoon Saul Lewis, French horn PROGRAM NIELSEN Serenata in vano J.S. BACH ARR. S. NEWTON Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme CONRADIN KREUTZER Grand Septet in E-flat: Adagio – Allegro CONRADIN KREUTZER Grand Septet in E-flat: Minuet & Trio ALDOPHE BLANC Septet in E: Andante