Composer Anna Clyne is something of a musical phenomenon: born in the UK, but now resident in America, with a string of residencies, awards and commissions behind her.
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra is performing the middle three movements of her orchestral suite Abstractions – music that’s notable for having been inspired by specific pieces of contemporary visual art.
The Grammy-nominated composer has been described as a “composer of uncommon gifts and unusual methods” by the New York Times.
She’s worked leading film-makers, visual artists, and choreographers as well as leading symphony orchestra around the world.
She’s also heavily involved with music education, mentoring the next generation of contemporary composers and musicians.
She spoke to David Morriss about art, life and what it means to have the NZSO perform her work.
The NZSO will perform Abstractions as part of this weekend’s The Planets performances in Auckland and Wellington.