BY LAURA BIEMMI
The Australian Festival of Chamber Music is one of the most significant events in Australia’s concert calendar. Dedicated to bringing a diverse range of artists to play together in one beautiful, Australian location (the tropical paradise of Townsville, no less!), the AFCM facilitates some of Australia’s finest music making with the help of local and international musicians.
In the words of Artistic Director Kathryn Stott, “one of the wonderful aspects of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music, and indeed other international festivals of this type, is bringing artists of all ages together”.
“It’s so special for our younger musicians to work with those who are very well established but equally, our younger guests can really keep us all on our toes and bring freshness through their new experiences. It’s a win-win scenario.”
One such musician is Norwegian trumpeter Tine Thing Helseth. An international trumpet soloist, chamber musician, and recording artist, Helseth has been in high demand following her soloist debut at the 2013 BBC Proms, and has since worked with orchestras all around the world.
Alongside her demanding schedule as a live performer, Helseth is also an accomplished recording artist, having won a Norwegian Grammy and releasing a series of critically acclaimed CDs. Helseth has also created her own all-female brass ensemble, tenThing, and her own biannual festival, Tine@Munch, in celebration of Norwegian painter Edvard Munch.
We speak to Helseth about her extensive collaboration with Kathryn Stott, her eagerness to visit Australia, and how the trumpet is her voice.
Congratulations on your involvement in the Australian Festival of Chamber Music. What made you want to be involved in this significant event in Australia’s musical calendar?
I am extremely excited to come to Australia for the first time! I know Kathryn Stott very well; we are good friends and have collaborated musically in the past. So, when she asked me to be involved in the AFCM, I immediately said yes!
Tell us about your instrument – how does it lend itself to the intimate nature of chamber music?
For me, the trumpet is my voice, and I see myself first and foremost as a musician – not a trumpet player. It’s always interesting and exciting to communicate with my voice through music on any level, especially on this very intimate level of chamber music.
Which piece are you most looking forward to performing at the AFCM, and why is it a powerful one?
It’s hard to choose; Kathy has programmed a lot of my favourites. It will be my first time performing with bagpipes, though!
Why is chamber music an important genre of music for instrumentalists to play?
It’s the most intimate way to communicate through music. It’s even more flexible and personal than a bigger group like an orchestra.
What is the highlight of your chamber music career so far?
Highlights are always hard to explain and find, because I feel like I have many. But touring and recording an album together with Kathryn is absolutely one of them!
As a young artist, what do you feel is the importance of festivals such as the AFCM?
I know I am a young artist, but since I’ve been in this game for more than 12 years, I feel old and very experienced. However, I can’t wait to visit your country and participate in this amazing festival!
AFCM brings together people of all ages from around the world to make music together. Who are you most looking forward to working with?
All of them!
Why should young listeners make the trip up to North Queensland to see events with you and the other artists of AFCM? (Aside from the fact that it’s tropical, scenic, luxurious…)
Because live music is the best thing ever! And a festival atmosphere is unique – no matter the genre!
Check out the full festival program to make sure you see Julian in action between 27 July to 5 August! (And don’t forget, if you’re under 30 you’ll get $30 tickets for any of the 30 concerts. How sweet is that?)
Images supplied.
