ABOUT THE QUARTET

Richard Mapp, Piano — Cello, David Chickering — Viola, Donald Maurice — Violin, Yuri Gezentsvey

Formed in 2000

The New Zealand Piano Quartet, formerly known as the Massey Piano Quartet, was formed in the year 2000 from members of the faculty at the Massey University Conservatorium of Music in Wellington, New Zealand.

The group brings together some of the finest musicians in the country, all of whom have had illustrious careers both in New Zealand and abroad.

French Chamber Music at its peak. How tighly integrated this ensemble is. But look at the talent...this group is bound to be headhunted for the national touring circuit.
Ian Dando, Christchurch Star.

Tradtional and contemporary repetoire

Over the short period of time they have been performing together, the musicians have developed a tremendous rapport resulting in dynamic, exciting and sensitive performances.

In addition to their world-class renditions of the well-loved, traditional repertoire, they take an interest in performing and promoting new works.

Their committed performances of contemporary music have earned them praise, not only from composers but from audiences and critics alike.

Recently, with the generous support of Creative New Zealand, the group was able to commission a new work from the pre-eminent New Zealand Composer, Sir William Southgate. Several other composers have expressed an interest in writing works specifically for the ensemble.

New Zealand-wide performances

Over the course of the past couple of years, they have played at all of the major New Zealand venues. Their 2001 Chamber Music New Zealand tour of the North Island was highly successful, as was their performance in the 2002 New Zealand Festival of the Arts.

Recording together

They have recently recorded their first disc together which includes some previously unrecorded works by Alfred Hill. They enjoy playing together and look forwards to future performances both in New Zealand and abroad.

Teaching and master classes

All four members of the group are on faculty at the Conservatorium of Music at Massey University in Wellington. They are devoted to teaching and promoting young musicians. They hope, through their concerts, to attract new and promising students to the vibrant artisitc community that exists in Wellington.

The Quartet welcomes opportunities to meet with young people and conduct masterclasses. As individuals, they are familiar faces as adjudicators and panellists at competitions and examinations across the country.