Kate’s Score: 3.5 Nutcrackers
The Woollahra Philharmonic Orchestra’s stated mission is “to bring musical enrichment to the community, providing professional attitude towards innovative and enjoyable concerts”. In the very atmospheric St Columba’s Church Woollahra, they present about four weekend concerts a year. The charm of these concerts lies in their intimacy – no matter where you sit you are close enough to almost read the music on then stands for yourself (if you can read music). Certainly close enough for every nuance facial expression on every player’s face. And it is clear that these musicians are playing for the love of music and their passion to share it with the broader community.
Every concert has a different focus; sometimes it is an amazing guest soloist, other times – such as this past weekend, it was a theme. A very family oriented theme, as it turned out – Destinations & Adventures under the military style baton of guest conductor John Buckley. It was a family affair with balloons and fairies, musicians in various costumes (a Darth Vader flautist) and even a Sugar Plum Fairy (cellist Dr Cindy Pan – just how many strings to her bow does this amazing woman have?) to dance in and around the audience. Exciting music riffed though the venue and children were encouraged to dance and move as they wanted. No shushing or frowns for wriggly littlies; instead they were free to interact with the music however they wanted. Although for the most part, they were all spellbound in their costumes.
We began and ended with John William’s pieces – Star Wars and Jurassic Park. John Williams for me is the Beethoven of our times – the music is as passionate, just as thrilling and promises an exciting journey. The movie studios and streaming companies (like Netflix) are the new patron princes of composers but it does not mean the work is any less engaging, emotive or empowering. There were some familiar pieces from Tchaikovsky and Herbert and more for film fans with Morricone’s Gabriel’s Oboe.
The orchestra is composed of musicians with a range of experience and level of achievement. Some sections are stronger than others. As a whole, they tend to handle the softer, gentler passages better than the more powerful ones, where the brass needs to lead. But indeed, they are a community orchestra so one forgives a little more than with a group such as the TSO. It is a far more immersive experience than a grand event at the Opera House and in so many ways, very enjoyable.
This was a delightful concert and the mood was very happily communal. And as my companion observed, a quarter of the price with far, far more than that in quality.
Treat yourself and your family.
Kate Stratford – On Sounds
