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MULLED WINE CONCERTS PRESENTS THE AOTANGO DUO A Journey Through Tango, World, and Classical Music Kapiti classical music enthusiasts have been giving a warm reception to the Mulled Wine Concert series presented by Mary Gow. The series - which is now in its 16th year - has presented a wide range of music ranging from formal classical piano recitals through string quartets, harp and violin duos, singers and guitarists to full-on jazz sessions. With support from local arts organisations, Gow – a concert pianist herself – is intent on building upon her success to present a further series of concerts in Kapiti during 2025. As well as impeccably performed music at a Mulled Wine Concert, Kapiti audiences have come to expect the unexpected and this is especially true for the next concert in the series. Combining the classical violin artistry of Andrew Beer (lead violin and concertmaster of the Auckland Philharmonia) and the captivating sound of accordionist Grayson Masefield (himself a world champion in the art), The AOTANGO Duo presents an enthralling fusion of tango, world music, and classical traditions, with influences from jazz to baroque masterpieces. Their repertoire spans Astor Piazzolla’s Nuevo Tango, virtuosic works like Monti’s Czardas, timeless pieces by Handel, alongside dynamic Balkan folk music and reimagined jazz classics. They also champion works by New Zealand composers, bringing fresh perspectives to their genre-crossing performances. No stranger to Paekakariki, violinist Andrew Beer has been hailed as a “virtuoso soloist”, praised for his “glorious string tone” and celebrated as a “musical gift” by The New York Times. Internationally acclaimed, Andrew has performed in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls across Europe, Asia, Australasia and the Americas. Since 2014, he has held the position of concertmaster/lead violinist of the Auckland Philharmonia. Grayson Masefield is a New Zealand-born accordionist and the first person to win World Championships in the Classical, Virtuoso, and Digital accordion categories. He is the Instrumental Music Teacher for Accordion at the University of Auckland. Regularly invited as a guest artist and adjudicator, Grayson has appeared at prestigious international competitions and has performed widely internationally. A versatile musician, he performs in both classical and contemporary ensembles. He has collaborated with leading overseas and NZ composers to perform and record new original works for the accordion. With a balance of technical brilliance and expressive artistry, AOTANGO Duo offers a rich and engaging musical experience, blending tradition with creativity. ========= ENDS ========= Mulled Wine Concerts presents The AOTANGO DUO Sunday 15 June 2025 at 2:30PM St Peter's Community Hall, Beach Rd, Paekakariki Tickets: Adults $35 Students $15. Online sales: [email protected] Info: 021 101 9609 Ticket outlets: Magpie Paremata, Mana Esplanade; Finn's Hotel, Paekākāriki; Moby Dickens Bookshop, Paraparaumu Beach; Jenoa, 2 Mahara Place, Waikanae.