Catherine Lawrence 27/9/26 Catherine Lawrence 27/9/26

Maestro 7: Symphonic Dances | Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Clerici draws out the power of the orchestra in a piece that includes a memorable saxophone solo, sparkling harp and piano interplay, and an excellent ‘wind section conversation.’ The first movement is incredible: lyrical, soaring strings combined with the rising tension from the brass and woodwind, left the audience quite breathless. And of course the finale of the third movement is a very satisfying way in which to conclude any concert.

Triss Niemi 27/9/24 Triss Niemi 27/9/24

The Cat Empire with Queensland Symphony Orchestra | Queensland Symphony Orchestra & Brisbane Festival

For all the fun and frivolity of the night there too was a sincerity to the evening. It was born of a shared love for the work of this iconic Australian band, but also for the power of live music to escape us from our troubles and honour our survival.

Triss Niemi 10/9/24 Triss Niemi 10/9/24

Eucalyptus - The Opera | Brisbane Festival, QPAC and Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Eucalyptus – The Opera might be about the everyday of a small town, full of small people but their grandiose experience of that mundanity is portrayed to dazzling effect here. Evocative, haunting, and distinctly Australian, this work is one I hope to see do very well and thus usher in a new wave of Australiana at the opera.

Harmonie Downes 30/8/24 Harmonie Downes 30/8/24

Dreams & Stories | Queensland Symphony Orchestra with William Barton

Sculthorpe’s Kakadu followed, which was a standout in terms of William Barton’s additions through didgeridoo. Note that this was not part of the original score and something Sculthorpe included after hearing Barton play. In part a beautiful homage between musos. I loved the harmonic shifts of the different instruments mimicking birds, trees, nature and the sometimes flight, fright, freeze and fawn.