A classical concert at a property near Broadford on February 19 will feature the unique coupling of the saxophone and harpsichord, led by a classical saxophonist who recently emigrated to Australia from The Netherlands.
Organiser Peter Hagen said while saxophone was not traditionally coupled with harpsichord and baroque music, the combination highlighted the expressiveness of saxophone, and how well it fitted in with the baroque style associated with more traditional wind instruments such as oboe or flute.
“Under Niels Bijl’s musical mastery the more subtle capabilities of the saxophone emerge like you have not heard before,” he said.
Mr Bijl said a life filled with music was a life filled with sharing, collaborating, creating and inspiring next generations.
“It gives me tremendous joy being able to share the stage with a variety of musicians from so many different backgrounds, such as classical music, jazz, early music, or even folk- and rock music,” he said.
“Whether it is working with composers to bring their music to life, creating workshops for amateur musicians or children, organising concerts at unexpected places or far away regions: I embrace the fact that every week seems to be completely different, and every event fills me with inspiration and new ideas.”
The concert will begin at 5pm at Mr Hagen’s property 10 minutes from Broadford – known to many for the high quality musical performances he presents.
The program includes music of Handel, Vivaldi, De Fesch, Sammartini and Telemann, all famous composers of the 18th century.
On the back of a vibrant and successful career in Europe, Mr Bijl has embraced a new life as a performing artist, chamber musician, collaborator, project organiser and lecturer in Australia since January 2020.
Following his graduation, Mr Bijl became a member of the world renowned Aurelia Saxophone Quartet, one of the world’s leading saxophone quartets.
With the quartet, he recorded several CDs, including a recording of Johan Sebastian Bach’s entire Art of Fugue, for which the ensemble was awarded a nomination for the Dutch Emmy (Edison award).
Both as a soloist and a member of his quartet, Mr Bijl has toured the world for the past 20 years, giving concerts and masterclasses on nearly every continent.
Mr Bijl also started the Baritone Institute Australia, a collective for all of Australia’s baritone saxophonists, with a program that is currently touring country Victoria offering a series of coaching and masterclasses.
“For Niels it’s all about the music, in all forms. The versatility of his instrument, the saxophone, and an unending amount of positive energy enables him to bring music to life, and he will do his utmost to contribute to an already lively and inspiring Australian arts scene,” Mr Hagen said.
or call Mr Hagen on 5784 3884 or email peter@peterhagen.com.au.
