Barton and Brodsky, Ancient strings, living spirit.

The members of the London based Brodsky Quartet include Krysia Osostowicz (violin), Ian Belton (violin), Paul Cassidy (viola), and Jacqueline Thomas (cello). Their history dates back to the early 1970s and they combine their rich tradition and renowned precision with the absolutely enchanting work of the Australian musician William Barton. Barton has been described as a magician and when he plays the Yidaki it becomes evident why; his performance is incredibly spellbinding. 

The combination of the two very different musical traditions is seamless as they engage in a dialogue or musical exchange. The instruments from the classical European tradition often echo the exquisite, deep-toned rhythms of the Yidaki (a traditional sacred wind instrument of Northeast Arnhem Land, belonging to the Yolngu people). Barton exudes a strong and palpable connection to the instrument. The way in which the music he produces evokes landscape or the natural environment and informs the classical music is absolutely captivating. 

The program included Henry Purcell’s Fantasia in D minor, Z.739, Peter Sculthorpe’s String Quartet No.11, Jabiru Dreaming, Robert Davidson’s Minjerribah, Leoš Janáček’s String Quartet No.1, The Kreutzer Sonata, Igor Stravinsky’s Three Pieces for String Quartet - 1st Mov. 'Dance', Andrew Ford’s String Quartet No.7, Eden Ablaze, Salina Fisher’s, Tōrino, the traditional folk song She moved through the fair and William Barton’s, Square Circles Beneath the Red Desert Sand.

Each piece offered an opportunity for a unique, profound and vibrant exchange between European chamber music and Barton’s mastery of ancient artistry with the Yidaki. This exchange was sometimes playful and sometimes dramatic but always in complete harmony and unison, and clearly the product of a long-term, heartfelt relationship and collaboration between the musicians.

Barton’s dramatic and haunting composition, which concluded the program, is strongly connected to his country: Mount Isa and Kalkadunga. The performance of this piece was nothing short of sublime and spiritually uplifting, giving the program an absolutely sensational finale. 

This is a concert experience not to be missed.

Patricia Di Risio 

Images: Melbourne Recital Centre & Laura Manariti