Let Yourself Go – Queensland Symphony Orchestra Launch 2018

August 18, 2017

On a beautiful night in the River City I went to bed with the strains of Tchaikovsky’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’ floating through my head. I had enjoyed an evening at QPAC in the beautiful Concert Hall for the launch of Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s 2018 season. Introduced by Chief Executive – David Pratt this performance gave us a peek into what we in Brisbane can look forward to next year. It included music, anecdotes and a lovely launch party. Hosted by the effervescent Music Director- Alondra de la Parra we were treated to candid snaps of the members of the orchestra, a who’s who of international musicians we can look forward to seeing next year and some beautiful music.

Changes

David said, “Some of our season ticket holders have been coming along to listen to the Queensland Symphony Orchestra since 1947. This year there have been changes, we’ve had a good look at ourselves and decided we need a little bit of restoration – one that matches the excitement, passion and energy Alondra de la Parra has brought us. Our orchestra is still the same but we have a new logo and brochure and a new mantra to just let yourself go and get lost in the moment and the music.”

Alondra de la Parra is certainly an energetic conductor and this energy has been used to create a season of contrasts. She said, “The audience will love some pieces and hate some pieces. It’s a season where we invite you to let yourself go, and simply allow the music to tell its story.” Alondra is excited to be working with a range of talented musicians, some of whom are her friends, from around the world.

International Guests

In 2018 the Queensland Symphony Orchestra welcomes Sergio Tiempo as Artist -in – Residence. Sergio is one of the most thought provoking pianists of his generation. Alondra said, “Sergio Tiempo will perform the Ginastera Piano Concerto in April and Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.1 in August, as well as featuring in Morning Masterworks and Chambers Players Concerts.

Another highlight will be when the acclaimed 23 year old American violinist Chad Hoopes performs the Barber Concerto on his beloved 1713 Antonio Stradivarius Cooper with the orchestra.”

A highlight for me was listening to the amazing voice of Queensland’s own soprano Morgan England – Jones who will feature in Faure Requiem with acclaimed baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes.

Queensland Orchestra Presents

The popular Maestro Series features performers from Germany, Venezuela, Mexico, the USA and England. Enjoy Sergio Tiempo, pianist- Denis Kozhukin or Andreas Haefliger who will perform with some of Brisbane’s best choirs.

The orchestra invites you to spend a night in Russia, enjoy Leonard Bernstein’s works on what would be his 100th birthday or wave your flags at the annual (NOT) The Last night at the Proms.

Alondra encourages audiences to try something new like Waves at the Powerhouse or enjoy the chamber orchestras as they present some of their own favourite music.

There really is something for everyone in this year’s program and with the exciting and energetic Alondra at the helm it also promises to be a season full of the familiar but also the fun. Tickets are on sale now at QPAC.

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