Acacia Quartet. Photo: Supplied.
“Acacia Quartet performed so well that at times they seem like only one instrument, such is their clarity and unison,” one reviewer said.
In over a decade of working together, the Acacia Quartet has won great respect for their versatile and inventive programs, and tomorrow (July 27) they play on what almost feels like home turf which will no doubt add to their performance.
Performing at the Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre, these four friends and music masters are promising a dynamic program including a world premiere.
Featuring Lisa Stewart on violin, Myee Clohessy on violin, Stefan Duwe on viola and Anna Martin-Scrase on cello, Acacia has been coming to Bega for 10 years as tutors at the annual South Coast Music Camp each spring.
“I asked them in 2008 if they were willing to commit to developing the musicians in this area and they warmly agreed and they’ve been true to their word in many ways ever since,” says local music legend and camp director Geoffrey Badger.
“For example, I’ve had many texts just this week with Anna and Lisa organising some lessons with local students while they are here for a few days.
“These long term musical relationships are what create great musicians and keep people inspired to play, create and teach great music.”
Acacia are passionate about supporting Australian composers, working with young musicians, and sharing their love of music with audiences of all ages.
Right from the start, we programmed in composer Lyle Chan’s music,” Anna Martin-Scrase says.
“Lisa and Stefan, our first violinist and violist – as well as our married couple, had heard his music performed and thought it was absolutely gorgeous, so contacted Chan to see if he had anything for string quartet.
“From that point on -2010, we programmed something of Chan’s in almost every concert.”
For the very first time anywhere, Acacia will play Lyle Chan’s ‘String Quartet’ during Saturday’s performance in Bega.
“We tend to play melodic compositions, beautiful or fun pieces because as an ensemble, we are best at emotional compositions,” Anna says.
“When it comes to our preparation schedule, we have always rehearsed weekly.
“Two days a week with the optional third day as concerts approach. We do anywhere from five to seven hours per day, careful to take breaks when we notice tempers fraying or hunger setting in.”
Acacia’s engagements in Australia include the Sydney Opera House, City Recital Hall Sydney, Melbourne Recital Hall, as well as extensive touring through regional NSW and Victoria.
Their talent and passion is also heard regularly on radio stations around the world.
Acacia has inspired dozens of Bega Valley musicians in their 10 year relationship with the community and will no doubt win over new fans tomorrow during their performance.
What you need to know…
Acacia Quartet, Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre, Saturday, July 27, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Tickets are $25 to $30 and available now via Trybooking.
This is a sponsored article, though all opinions are the author’s own. For more information on paid content, see our sponsored content policy.
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