This arrangement of Mondo Rondo (2012) for piano trio (originally written for string quartet) is highly engaging with its combination of exotic melodies and percussive, funky rhythms. The percussive-like writing in this work lends itself well to the piano. An intriguing technical feature calls for the pianist to dampen the strings inside the piano to create a pizzicato-like effect. Farr combines this piano effect with subtle "body percussion" in the string parts (by tapping on the string instruments), which evokes the unique sound of the m'bira (African thumb piano). Farr showcases a lively interplay between the three instruments in this work, which adds to its strong appeal for audiences. It is now available for purchase as a performance set.
Gareth Farr is an indisputably colourful figure in New Zealand music. And whether scored for percussion duet or the resources of two large orchestras, Farr's music reflects his personality – bold, brash, or delicate and sensuous, but inevitably, immediately, engaging. Rhythmic elements of his compositions can be linked to the complex and exciting rhythms of Rarotongan log drum ensembles, Balinese gamelan and other percussion music of the Pacific Rim. In addition to his music for the concert chamber, Farr has written music for dance, theatre and television.
