Chamber Music New Zealand Presents Dutch Reed Quintet Calefax
"Five extremely gifted Dutch gents who almost made the reed quintet seem the best musical format on the planet.” (The Times)
Acclaimed for virtuosic playing, brilliant arrangements, and innovative stage presentation, Calefax is a classical ensemble with a pop mentality.
The programme features a blend of classical compositions that will transport you through time and across cultures. From the intricate harmonies of Bach’s Baroque masterpiece to Schubert’s Romantic lyricism, and the jazzy rhythms of Gershwin’s iconic ‘An American in Paris’. Calefax, hailing from the Netherlands, are thrilled to be performing the world premiere of a newly CMNZ-commissioned work from award-winning New Zealand composer Rosie Langabeer.
Don't miss Calefax in Auckland: Tuesday 17 September - 7.30pm
.........Photography: Merlijn Doomernik
Suellen’s sweet Christmas tradition
The festive season is always a great excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, and this time of year poses the perfect opportunity to bring a real showstopper to the Christmas table.
For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche, an impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with spun sugar that is popular at weddings in France and Italy.
What began as a birthday treat at a local French café has become a cherished Christmas tradition for Suellen and her 17-year-old twin granddaughters, Ellie and Sadie. Every year, the trio gather in Suellen’s apartment at William Sanders Village to cook this festive dessert - a holiday highlight they all treasure.
Click read more for the recipe.
Worst Xmas ever?
There's a a lot of planning that goes into Christmas day and sometimes things just don't go to plan. But it can be a good thing - a family mishap or hilarious memory that you can laugh about in Christmases to come.
Whether you burnt the dinner or were stranded at an airport...
Share your Christmas mishaps below!