The Symphony Orchestra plays at Hamer Hall

Last Monday night, May 22^nd, the Symphony Orchestra under Jeremy Martin opened the region’s annual showcase concert at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre.

They performed a beautiful rendition of Mozart’s Overture to the Magic Flute. Most impressively, the orchestra immediately adjusted to the hall’s feel and acoustics. They played with particularly good balance: plenty of control, yet still energized in the work’s climactic points.

And joining the orchestra were about 15 students from other schools who added great strength and colour to our string section – especially in a hall of such size.

Also featured, were two soloists: Cal Barry (flute) and Daniel Nealon (Saxophone) who took to the stage as featured solo items. Cal performed Danse de la Chevre, whilst Dan played a composition of his own, Jungle Fever - and it was fantastic to see the 260 younger primary school audience members (all part of a choir who sang in the second half) sitting forward eagerly in their seats to listen.

Congratulations to both Cal and Daniel, and to the Orchestra for providing outstanding highpoints to this event. New Eastern Regional Director Mr Jim Watterston was suitably impressed when he addressed the staff involved at an after-concert function.