Tales presents a compelling exploration of narrative in music, featuring pianist Michael Song performing programmatic piano works by Cécile Chaminade, Frank Bridge, and Nikolai Medtner. Unified by their shared engagement with storytelling, these compositions draw inspiration from fairy-like and supernatural beings, as well as the vibrant world of Russian folklore.

Chaminade's works capture the enchantment of mythical woodland creatures and supernatural beings, while Bridge's four-movement A Fairy Tale takes listeners on a journey through "The Princess," "The Ogre," "The Spell," and "The Prince." Medtner's Six Skazki ("Six Tales") were inspired by Russian folklore characters including Cinderella and Ivanushka the Fool.

This programme invites the listener to enter a realm where music transcends abstraction, offering vivid glimpses into timeless tales shaped by fantasy, legend, and the enduring human fascination with story.

Programme

Cécile Chaminade (1857–1944) – Les Sylvains Op.60, Les Willis Op.40 & Caprice Impromptu Op.153
Frank Bridge (1879–1941) – A Fairy Tale H.128
Nikolai Medtner (1880–1951) – Six Skazki Op.51

About the Pianist

A young pianist with a passion for narrative and expression, Michael Song invites listeners on a journey through sound, where storytelling and imagination meet at the keys. With roots in China, Michael moved to New Zealand in 2012, where his love for music-making was nurtured under the long-standing mentorship of pianist Flavio Villani.

He completed a Bachelor of Music with first class honours at the University of Auckland, where he was recognised with multiple Top of the Course Awards. Michael was a semi-finalist in the prestigious Lewis Eady National Piano Competition and has performed across Auckland in various settings.

Now based in Sydney, Michael is completing his Master of Music Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music under the guidance of pianist Paul Rickard-Ford and is one of six recipients of the 2024 George and Margaret Henderson Scholarship.