Latest news
‘Albert Herring’ picture gallery
Opera Australia’s production of Albert Herring opened in Sydney last week. Set in 1900, the sepia tones of the sets and costumes designed by Roger Butlin have been newly lit by Nigel Levings and retain the feeling of nineteenth century photographs. Scroll down to see all 8 images. Images by Branco Gaica, courtesy Opera Australia.
Philip Glass interview
Composer Philip Glass is interviewed this week by The Guardian’s Laura Barnett. He talks about fame, inspiration and people he would like to work with. Click here to read.
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra announces its 2014 season
The Sydney Symphony has resumed its identity as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra with the release of its 2014 season under its new Chief Conductor David Robertson. Whilst the focus is on the European classics, the year’s offerings ought to please, as the programme includes symphonic masterworks, lighter fare from the movies, choral greats and a spritz of the unusual. The visiting soloists and…
Properly taught music is a must in school, says Richard Gill
Conductor and music educator Richard Gill is passionate about the importance of expertly taught music in the school curriculum. He says ‘ unless children are receiving a first-rate music education, taught by teachers who know about music, children’s brains are being starved, in part, of the necessary stimulants that generate creativity in an individual.’ Click here to read the…
‘Ode to Joy’ is commemorated in stone
Beethoven was paid £50 and was deaf when he wrote his Symphony No 9 Ode to Joy. Commissioned in 1822 by the Royal Philharmonic Society in the UK, it premiered in the UK in 1825, following its world premiere in Vienna the previous year. This weekend, a plaque commemorating the UK premiere and its venue will be unveiled…
‘Lady Sings the Viol’ giveaways – CDs and passes to launch
If you would like to be in the running to win one of two double passes to the cabaret style launch of the CD Lady Sings the Viol, created in style by director Christine Douglas on August 24th at The Independent Theatre in North Sydney – or – Win one of 4 CD giveaways of…
Latest reviews
The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra Reviewed.
Read Peter MacCallum’s review of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra’s first Sydney concert on November 29th. Maestro Mariss Jansons was taken ill during the final Sydney concert and had to retire from the stage, whilst his assistant Rory Macdonald took over. Apparently the conductor is resting in his hotel and there is no cause for concern….
Review: ‘Götterdämmerung’ Opera Australia
Opera Australia:Der Ring des Nibelungen: Götterdämmerung Arts Centre Melbourne/25 November 2013 ***** The Third Day of Wagner’s music colossus concluded what has been the kind of festival he had planned: all four operas being performed in close succession by outstanding singers and a Wagner sized orchestra of excellent musicians in a production that illuminates…