Camerata’s performance of Old. New. Borrowed. Blue. was a fascinating combo of classical and contemporary music. This intriguing program was curated by guest performer, Anthony Romaniuk. Alternating between harpsichord, piano and electronics, multi skilled Anthony was also the composer of Blue Poles.
Detailed in the program notes, the select pieces played were musically and intellectually, complex. Whilst I didn’t enjoy all of it. That is no reflection whatsoever on the abilities of the instrumentalists. It reflects my own preference for recognisable, classical compositions.
As the sounds became more contemporary, more techno, I was out of my comfort zone. As my mind searched unsuccessfully for familiar passages, I felt a bit lost, left behind, out of sync. My grasp of this genre needs enhancing. Challenge accepted.
The musicianship of the ensemble was absolutely superb. These are skilled, highly trained and carefully selected instrumentalists. They appeared perfectly at ease standing and playing their instruments for an hour and a half, whilst maintaining the requisite high standards.
Camerata is Queensland’s renowned chamber orchestra. I’ve encountered Camerata in varied formats many times across the years. Sometimes, when they are accompanying Queensland Ballet Company.
I’m always delighted to see violinist, now Artistic Director, Brendan Joyce play. As usual, I was hanging out for his solos. Those moments when all other instruments are silent and this brilliant dude steps up and soars.
Camerata are known for playing without a conductor. That’s courageous and daring. Comprised of eleven violins, four violas, four cellos and one double bass, this was not a tiny ensemble. Somehow, they accomplished instrumental cohesion.
Personally, I found the classical components much more compelling than the experimental elements. That’s just my personal preference. Clearly, Camerata is capable of orchestral diversification. That’s impressive.
The audience was obviously delighted by the evening and the applause was prolonged. As the clapping and cries of ‘Bravo!’ faded, a male voice behind me commented, “Well, that’s food for thought!” I too, had a lot of mental musical processing to do and a review to write.
Old. New. Borrowed. Blue
Concert Hall – QPAC, Cultural Precinct, Southbank (Brisbane)
Performance: Thursday 20 August 2026
Camerata will present Old. New. Borrowed. Blue at the Empire Theatre, Toowoomba, on Saturday 22 August 2026. For more information, visit: www.camerata.net.au for details.
Image: Camerata presents Old. New. Borrowed. Blue – photo by Alex Jamieson
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan