Music Research Forum with Penelope Thwaites AM
The More the Merrier
Join us for this illustrated lecture, the first in our series of music research talks for 2027.
The More the Merrier
Mighty composer and pianist Percy Grainger had thrilled audiences as a charismatic solo pianist from the age of 12. But he also discovered early the joys and possibilities of music for two or three keyboards, and over his life produced a rich collection of compositions for 4, 6, 8, 10, and even 11 hands. Penelope Thwaites, whose acclaimed recordings include all of Grainger’s multi hand works – performed with John Lavender, Timothy Young and Wayne Marshall among others – takes us through this colourful, unusual and beautiful world.
She has experienced it, not just as exciting concert repertoire, but also as an invaluable field of discovery for students and professionals alike - and through her recordings, will be exploring why!
*
The Museum will be open from 5:30pm, with the talk starting at 6pm.
Bookings encouraged, drop-ins welcome.
Host
Penelope Thwaites AM
Born in the UK of Australian parents, Penelope grew up in Melbourne, achieving a B.Mus. Hons degree at Melbourne University as top student of her year, and made her professional debut at the Wigmore Hall in 1974. Based in London, she is a proud citizen of both countries, and has appeared as soloist with leading orchestras in Britain, Australia, Europe and America. She has performed and broadcast in some thirty-five countries, making a point throughout her career of playing and promoting Australian composers. Last year she featured in Mairi Nicolson’s ABC Legends series as well as 3MBS Reflections with Ted Davies. A new recording for Albion records with Katherine Rudge (mezzo soprano) and Alessandro Fisher (tenor), featuring Grainger, Vaughan Williams and Peggy Glanville-Hicks was released in May 2025 to wide critical acclaim, and was chosen by BBC Music Magazine as their CD of the Month.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
