SIR Robert Helpmann Theatre is gearing up to host an evening of the finest classical music from Mozart to Haydn alongside new commissions from composer and pianist of indie rock band The Jezebels.
The blending of musical styles – set down for March 2 – will be headed by charismatic Finnish violin virtuoso Pekka Kuusisto who is international renowned for his humour and personality when performing.
Kuusisto will direct the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO) Collective for a five-stop tour which includes Mount Gambier.
The collective is an ensemble that combines Australia’s most talented emerging string players with professional musicians of the ACO.
Now in his fourth year as ACO Collective artistic director, Kuusisto has put together a unique program around Haydn’s Symphony No. 47 in G major, nicknamed The Palindrome.
The concert will also feature the world premiere of two works by Australian composer, Heather Shannon, pianist of indie rock band The Jezabels, commissions by ACO for this tour.
Regional touring activities are a core focus for ACO Collective, with the ensemble having performed in over 85 regional centres since it launched in 2007.
“Music belongs to everyone – Australia is such a massive country and I think what the ACO and collective are doing through touring to regional parts of the country is ensuring that all Australians have the opportunity to see their country’s best musicians perform,” Kuusisto said.
“To bring music from other parts of the world and spread it through Australia is a task that we are very excited to play a small role in.”
The collective will also offer a series of string workshops and education concerts for local school students throughout the tour.
The Limestone Coast Symphony Orchestra will have the opportunity to play alongside ACO Collective musicians in string workshops tailored in collaboration with local string teachers and ensemble leaders.
