There is no doubt in my mind that this collaboration between the Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra and the Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra was a total success, both musically and socially!
The music chosen by the repertoire team was designed to not only show off the capabilities of the combined players, but to appeal to the 500 audience who attended the extravaganza. The programme certainly did this, and in addition with flair, panache and flamboyance!
The two orchestras were most ably and proficiently led in the first half by the SCSO orchestra leader, Genevieve Bignell, and then later in the afternoon, by the SCYO’s co-leader Melissa Buddle. Consequently, through their leadership the overall tone of excellence was set for the appreciative audience.
From the first rousing notes of the “Procession of the Nobles” from Mlada, Holst’s “Jupiter”, selections from the celebrated “Les Misérables”, and on to Ronan Hardiman’s “Lord of the Dance” and “The Chronicles of Narnia”, both orchestras excelled with their precision and musical performances.
The programme continued with most of the players favourite – the dramatic Alpha and Omega – which showcased the power of the two symphony orchestras and also the talent of the various soloists featured throughout.
We were indeed fortunate in having Tetias Goh to conduct excerpts from Holst’s St Paul’s Suite which was the precursor for America’s most well-known and respected classical composer, Aaron Copland, and his Hoe Down from the ballet Rodeo.
For the finale to this gala concert, the two orchestras played the famous Overture from Orpheus in the Underworld by Offenbach. The opening with a dramatic fanfare and contrasting sections leading to the Can-Can – which the audience participated in with great verve and passion – was a befitting and ideal closer to the whole afternoon’s spectacular showpiece of a concert!
In summing up – a brilliant concert in a brilliant venue!
Adrian is the Principal Conductor and Director of Music of the SCSO. For Adrian's bio, click here.
