Gerard van der Weide
Gerard van der Weide was born in the Netherlands and started playing the violin when he was seven years old. His main teacher was Jacques Holtman, former leader of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and the Amati String Quartet.
Other teachers included Igor Ozim, Davina van Wely, Lev Markiz and Lucy van Dael. He graduated from the Royal Conservatorium of Music in the Hague in 1986 where he led the Dutch student orchestra. From 1986 until 1991 he played in the first violin section of the Brabant Symphony Orchestra. He also performed chamber music with his wife, Melbourne born pianist Julie Haskell. Gerard and his family then migrated to Australia where he then became a first violinist in the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. He also worked in Australia Pro Arte and the Academy of Melbourne.
Performing as Melbourne String Quartet
The Melbourne String Quartet has appeared in various guises over the years. One group formed in 1973 and another in 1994.
Torquing Points
An exciting juxtaposition of 20th century Australian and 19th century European musical styles. Gordon Kerry's 'Torquing Points for String Quartet' and Mark Pollard's 'The Quick or the Dead' are approachable and lyrical pieces that fit well with this CD's classical works.
