Nicolas Altstaedt & Thomas Dunford

Presented by Musica Viva Australia

Cellist Nicolas Altstaedt and Lutenist Thomas Dunford put the rockstar in Baroque.

In the intricate weave of sounds that make up a baroque ensemble, the lute is central. It's fitting, then, that French-American lutenist Thomas Dunford is at the centre of some of the most exciting early music-making of the moment.

Thomas Dunford shares the stage with multi-award-winning cellist Nicolas Altstaedt. Since Altstaedt first performed for Musica Viva Australia, his star has continued to soar, as soloist, as conductor and as artistic catalyst to festivals and ensembles worldwide. It is a precious treat to hear him in recital.

What will these two originals create when they step on stage together? Anything could happen. But you can expect to be delighted by the genial invention of Louis XIV favourite Marais, dazzled by the virtuosic riffs of his rival Forqueray, and consoled by Bach's Cello Suites Nos.1 and 5. Expect the unexpected too, as they perform music closer to our time by Henri Duparc, Arvo Pärt and more.

Praise for the artists

'Thomas is one of the best of the young generation - I'd almost be ready to call him a genius.' - Willliam Christie of Les Arts Florissants

'Altstaedt has technique to burn, near perfect intonation, superb control of extreme registers and harmonics, and is physically at ease with his instrument ... one hung on every note as if they were the words of a master storyteller.' - The Australian

Dates & Times

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Duration: 2 hours (incl. interval). Please note, running times are approximate and subject to change.

Tickets

Single tickets on sale Wednesday 15 October 2025.

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Artists

Nicolas Altstaedt cello
Thomas Dunford lute

Program

Marin Marais
La Rêveuse