A special programme of music for two pianos and a flute is something of a celebratory affair. The Durban Concert Series presents pianists Christopher Duigan and Mary Dullea with flautist Eveline Ballantyne in a broad spectrum of music ranging from Bach to Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky at Howard College Theatre on December 4 at 20h00.

The programme highlights the spectacular Symphonic Dances by Rachmaninoff and excerpts from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite.

Rachmaninoff composed his Symphonic Dances, his third suite of three pieces for two pianos, in 1940. Equally valid in its two piano or richly scored orchestral versions, Rachmaninoff gave only a hint to its inspiration by mentioning to choreographer Mikhail Fokine that the three pieces may be subtitled: Midday - Twilight and Midnight.

The dances from Tchaikovsky's ballet The Nutcracker are performed in a two piano version as arranged by Nicolas Economou and popularised on a recording by himself and the brilliant pianist Martha Argerich. Christopher Duigan is joined by Irish pianist Mary Dullea, currently based in Durban. The programme also features flautist Evelien Ballantyne, recent Co-Principal of the KZNPO. Together with Christopher Duigan at the piano she will play a selection of flute gems by JS Bach, Faure and Chopin's charming Variations on a Theme of Rossini.

Refreshments will be on sale. Tickets R50 can be reserved through Music Revival on 083 742 7497 or booking@musicrevival.co.za