Pianist Monica Chang and violinist John Thomson present Norwegian Wood — a captivating programme that takes the audience on a musical journey through Norway’s search for national identity and independence.

The performance features works by Ole Bull, traditional Norwegian folk dances, and Edvard Grieg, Norway’s most celebrated composer. The rare Hardanger fiddle — a unique instrument with sympathetic strings that resonates with the heart of Norwegian tradition — will be featured in the folk dances, a first for many in New Zealand. These dances will be followed by Grieg’s own piano arrangements of these folk melodies, offering a fresh perspective on the country’s rich musical heritage. The programme will conclude with a performance of Grieg’s Sonata No. 1 for Piano and Violin, a stunning work that beautifully weaves together Norwegian folk music with Grieg’s melodic genius.

This is a rare opportunity to experience the distinctive sound of the Hardanger fiddle and immerse yourself in the national music of Norway. Don’t miss out on this exceptional evening of music!

Monica Chang is an Auckland-based pianist, and collaborative artist and teacher. As a soloist, she studied under distinguished pianists including Katherine Austin, Rae de Lisle, and Bryan Sayers, and has appeared as a concerto soloist with both the United Youth Orchestra and the Nelson Symphony Orchestra. Monica has premiered new works by composers such as Nigel Keay and has served as a guest orchestral pianist with Opus Orchestra.

An active chamber musician, Monica tours nationally as part of the Emanon Duo and is the pianist of the wind ensemble Trio Éclat. Monica has contributed extensively to collaborative piano projects at the University of Waikato and was previously a tutor for the Accelerando Junior Academy. She continues to work closely with music teachers across Auckland, providing coaching for a wide range of instrumental and vocal performers.

John Thomson is an Auckland based violinist and educator who returned to New Zealand in 2009 after twenty-five years in the United States. During his time overseas, he completed a doctorate in violin performance, taught at several universities, and performed extensively as a member of the Rawlins Piano Trio.

As a soloist, John has performed with orchestras throughout New Zealand and the USA, and has given concerts across Latin America, China, and Austria. His playing has been praised for its “brilliant technique and appealing cantabile” and described as “a rare treat” by critics.

In addition to his classical performances, John is a specialist in Gypsy violin traditions, has arranged works by Ole Bull, and has written on the music of Tartini, Viotti, and Joachim. He also performs on baroque violin, viola d’amore, and viola, and was the first musician to record on the rare 19th-century violotta.