David Alexander Barnard

PIANIST • CONDUCTOR • OPERA

Tag: Mozart

  • Leaving Linz

    Leaving Linz

    As my time in Linz draws to a close, I am proud to reflect on the impressive range of repertoire and substantial body of work I have achieved during my stay in Upper Austria, whilst at the Landestheater Linz Musiktheater and of course to celebrate some of the memorable highlights of this incredible journey.

    I came to Austria determined to fully immerse myself in a new culture and language, eager to gain valuable experiences that would enhance both my personal and professional life – and I achieved that in every possible way! Initially, I arrived as the assistant to the choir director for a year, but the theatre extended my stay to an enriching three years, during which I worked in the role of deputy choir director and solokorrepetitor. These three seasons allowed me to dive deep into some of the complexities of the German language and the vibrant Austrian classical music scene, all while forging strong bonds with colleagues and locals. As I prepare to leave at the end of this current season in July, I take away not just incredible memories, but also a wealth of unforgettable performances, the warmth of the Austrian people, and invaluable skills that will undoubtedly propel my future endeavours in the arts.

    In Summary:

    21 Operas
    6 Operettas
    4 Musicals
    1 Ballet
    4 Chamber Works
    5 World Premieres
    9 Concerts

    For me, the main-stage highlights include: New productions of Sweeney Todd, Der fliegender Holländer, La Juive, Die Fledermaus, Paganini and William Tell.

    Organ duties for La Juive
    End scene of La Juive
    Die Fledermaus
    View from the follow-spots
    Barber of Seville “ballet warm-up”
    Barber of Seville
    Susy and Flo – Stage Managers

    Other concert and chamber opera production highlights include: ‘Vanishings’ (co-production with Opera Massy), Der Findling (as part of the Bruckner 200th year celebrations) and Adam und Eva which premiered in the Schwetzinger Festspiele in Germany. However, one special mention goes to the cast of Arizona Lady – what fun that was!

    Paris “Vanishings”
    Vanishings – Paris
    Adam und Eva – Germany
    Extra Choir -Germany
    Arizona Lady
    Arizona Lady
    Brittney-Spears always featured!
    Old Cathedral – Der Findling
    Extra-Choir – Der Findling

    Playing for the Ballet (Tanz Linz) production of Amor & Psyche was really special indeed! In this production, I played a cello and piano duo work called Lieux retrouvés by Thomas Adès and also a special arrangement of Après un rêve by Fauré for cello, piano and orchestra. Every performance really was magical.

    Concert highlights have included fundraising events for local societies and charities, often supported with colleagues from the Extra-Choir of the Landestheater. However, one such benefit concert was with the Linzer String Quartet and was truly memorable experience. I’d also like to mention a special ‘duet’ recital with my super colleague, Tom Bitterlich (Music Director of the Musical dept at the Musiktheater).

    My official farewell concert at the Musiktheater was jointly shared with Angela Simkin: „Mythos und Melancholie“ – and was supported by the ‘Friends of the Musiktheater’. I’m really looking forward to further recitals with Angela in the near future!

    But my final concert in Austria to cap off this colourful three-year period, was at the birth house of Joseph and Michael Haydn, in Rohrau, NÖ.

    Mozart – with the Linzer Quartet
    Duets with Tom

    I am looking forward to my return to the UK as my primary base in September 2026, with a range of exciting contracts and events already shaping up for the 2026-2028 seasons. The past three years in Austria have been invaluable, providing me with profound insights into music, Austria, and the dynamics of a high-pressure, fixed-position environment, along with the inevitable positive and negative impacts on individuals. I wish all my colleagues tremendous success in their future endeavours, no matter where their musical journeys lead them. I wish the Hauschor of the Musiktheater all the best of luck in their new chapter with Herr Obermair.

    An die Menschen in Linz – die Linzer: Vielen Dank, dass ihr mich in eure Stadt eingeladen habt und mich so herzlich aufgenommen habt. Ich freue mich darauf, euch in nicht allzu ferner Zukunft wiederzusehen. Prost!

    D.A.Barnard July 2026.

  • Fundraising / Linz

    Fundraising / Linz

    Fundraising for the charity “Rollende Engel” – a charity which provides last wishes to terminally ill people.

    Verein Rollende Engel / Website

    Linz, 18th May 2025.

    Joining with the Linzer String Quartet, I had the incredible opportunity to perform the Piano Quartet in g-minor by Mozart in the beautiful Linz Ursulinenhof Church, which is supported by the Upper Austrian State Cultural Fund. The church’s stunning architecture and serene atmosphere provided a perfect backdrop for our performance, enhancing the rich, complex music that Mozart composed. As we played together, the blend of our instruments resonated throughout the sacred space, captivating the audience and creating an unforgettable experience. The support from the Upper Austrian State Cultural Fund not only underscores the importance of cultural initiatives but also allows artists like us to share our passion for classical music in such a remarkable setting.

    The Linzer Quartet with local wind players for the Schubert Octet.

    Together with guest wind players, we raised vital funds for the charity, which provides “a last wish” to terminally ill people. This initiative not only brought together talented musicians but also created a heartwarming atmosphere where compassion and community spirit thrived. Thank you to all involved for your time and effort, which made this event a tremendous success. A special thanks to Christa & Wolfgang Gierlinger, whose unwavering commitment and organisational skills were instrumental in bringing the whole event together, ensuring an experience that was both memorable and impactful for everyone who participated.

    The programme also included a world premiere, written specifically for the Lintzer String Quartet, titled “Elegy” by the talented Upper Austrian composer, Günther Firlinger. This piece, which captivates the audience with its intricate melodies and emotional depth, draws on a range of influences, marrying traditional string writing with contemporary nuances. The stunning lyricism embedded within the score showcased the Linzer Quartet wonderfully, allowing each member to shine through their expressive playing, while the harmonies created an atmosphere that resonated deeply within the hearts of those in attendance. With delicate phrasing and a powerful dynamic range, the performance of “Elegy” left a lasting impression, highlighting not only the skill of the musicians but also the profound connection that music can forge between the performers and the audience.

  • Top Vocals

    Top Vocals

    Professor Janis Kelly FRCM, DRSAMD, will be coming to Sheffield in November to deliver a two-hour masterclass and a recital, as part of a three-day residency in the Steel City.

    On the 25th November at 7pm, Janis will workshop the five participants, including some of the best current singers from the Royal Northern College of Music, in a two-hour marathon on performance and vocal presence.

    On Sunday 27th November at 3pm, Janis will deliver a recital of Mozart, Schumann, Ravel and Burns, called ‘A Woman’s Face’ – the latter referring to the composition that Janis will perform, composed for her by Rufus Wainwright. It will be a Sheffield-first to hear this particular piece sung.

    Information on the masterclass can be found here, including venue and travel information. There are already five participants booked for the class, including the Australian Baritone, Adam Jon, who will be in the UK and Italy on an audition tour.

    Information and tickets for the Sunday recital can be found on Eventbrite – although, cash and card are always accepted on the door.

  • Autumn Events

    Autumn Events

    If you are looking for some affordable events to attend in the Autumn, I would be delighted to invite you to the following:

    Lost Chord provide interactive music sessions in parts of the UK and I am delighted to be involved in this fundraiser in mid-September. Money raised from the evening will fun concerts in the Rotherham and are proving vital to support people with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

    TICKETS: £10 (in advance) and can be purchased online from here.

    I am very excited to present a solo piano recital, having not given one for over 8 years. The stage is always shared by colleagues and so here is an opportunity to hear me play on my own!

    The programme will feature some favourites and lesser-known works. However, it will be an accessible programme for all.

    Sunday 16th October at 2pm.

    TICKETS: £10 and can be purchased here.

    A wonderful recital with internationally renowned soprano, Janis Kelly with an inspiring programme of Mozart, Schumann, Ravel and Burns. All the the songs are about women and are all linked beautifully. Janis is a tremendous communicator and even if you’re not a seasoned song-recital goer, you will enjoy this combination of music and artist.

    Sunday 27th November at 3pm.

    TICKETS: £12 and can be purchased here.

    Advance Notice: Junction 33 Dance Band has been familiar with Sheffield and South Yorkshire audiences for many years. After a break, the band has decided to reform and promote their love for the Dance Band music of the 1920s – 1940’s.

    The band is currently planning a Christmas re-launch and will be announcing a special concert in Sheffield soon. This will take place in Sheffield. Stay tuned! You can follow the band on Instagram and Facebook.