Formed in 2015, Soirées Musicales Quintette regularly present classical music concerts in Brisbane.  Comprising a vocal quartet of sopranos Annie Lower and Rachael Griffin, tenor Mattias Lower and baritone Leon Warnock, they are accompanied and led by pianist Peter Roennfeldt. Predominantly concentrating on the romantic classical repertoire and enhancing the audience experience by performing in heritage venues, they have uncovered many lesser-known gems, in turn attracting a loyal following. Set in the splendid surroundings of Old Government House, A Christmas Songbook explored the musical journeys of different traditions and countries, mostly from song cycles and sung with some mixed results in original languages.

Pianist Roennfeldt commenced with Franz Liszt’s Christmas tree suite, Der Weihnachtsbaum, in a lively treatment of In dulci jubilo, brightly played on the 1905 heritage piano that still graces Old Government House. The four singers appeared from separate entrances in elegant period evening dress, adding authenticity to the venue. Individually they introduced the various sections with snippets about the repertoire and songs, a welcome addition to the program.

Christmas music from Germany and Austria included a Brahms’ children’s folksong followed by Schumann’s Christmas song. Both were bright and cheerful entrées...