Five Lines is a collection of writings about music in Aotearoa New Zealand by Elizabeth Kerr. It features short articles, artist profiles and reviews of concerts, operas and albums. You can subscribe - it’s free - at the bottom of any story.
The Phileo Quartet: sweet flavours of Vienna
New Zealand violinist Benjamin Morrison has brought some of his Vienna Philharmonic colleagues to tour his home country for Chamber Music New Zealand as the Phileo Quartet.
Korimako Piano Trio: fine musicians in thoughtful accord
New Zealand newest chamber ensemble, the Korimako Trio, opened its 2026 season with an enthusiastically-received concert for the Waikanae Music Society.
Morton Trio chooses Brahms for a splendid debut album
The Morton Trio - husband and wife duo Alex and Arna Morton, with pianist Liam Wooding - have chosen music for horn, violin and piano by Brahms and Arna Morton for their debut album.
Brahms, Hristova and Houstoun: magical unanimity
Pianist Michael Houstoun and violinist Bella Hristova bring their effortless rapport to a new album of Brahms Violin Sonatas.
Barley and De Pledge: Dream team
Matthew Barley and Stephen de Pledge are currently touring Aotearoa for Chamber Music New Zealand with a programme of Beethoven, Brahms and other “interesting stuff”.
Hilary Hahn with the NZSO - taking time
Celebrated American violinist Hilary Hahn talks about her early influences, JS Bach and her upcoming concertos with the NZSO.
At the World’s Edge Festival: intimacy, awe and connection
This week violinists Justine Cormack and Ben Baker will realise their dream of a new chamber music festival in Central Otago.
Violinist Wilma Smith - chamber music with friends
Violinist Wilma Smith is in New Zealand for a chamber music tour and the annual Martinborough Music Festival. The Delta outbreak has her plans in flux but she’s still smiling.
Sweet indulgence
A new CD of Romantic song transcriptions, Morgen shares the pleasures of beautiful and emotional music. Performed by Andrew Joyce, cello and Rae de Lisle, piano.
Johannes Brahms: Clarinet Sonatas and Trio
What does historically informed performance mean for late Brahms? A review of the recent release of Brahms’ Clarinet Sonatas and Trio, by Marie Ross (clarinet), Petra Somlai (piano) and Claire-Lise Démettre (cello) (Centaur).
