Orchestra For Everyone
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Here at Queensland Symphony Orchestra, we're for great music. We're for epic symphonies that take you on a breathtaking musical journey. We're for spine-tingling solos that have you holding your breath in awe. We're for fun family concerts where everyone is welcome to experience the magic of live music.
Whoever you are, and whatever your musical journey, our 2023 Season is for you.
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#Everything You Were Too Afraid To Ask
What happens at a concert?
At all our concerts we play music created by composers that has been meticulously planned for a large group of 80+ musicians. Some of the music is hugely famous, and some is brand new. In the hands of a great composer, orchestral music is the equivalent of an amazing piece of architecture or a famous painting - it is the height of human creativity. For many people, the most famous type of orchestral music is created by film composers. From John Williams to Hans Zimmer, movie audiences are often moved by the power of orchestra music, even when they don’t realise it. Over the course of 2021 we will aim to showcase some of the best orchestra music ever created.
The different types of music created by composers include
Symphonies
Longer pieces of music for orchestra
Concertos
Music for a solo instrument and orchestra
Chamber Music
Music for smaller groups of instruments
Movie Music
The soundtrack to accompany on-screen action
Ballet and Opera
Music to accompany on-stage action
Choral Music
Music for choir and orchestra
Who performs with the Orchestra?
Every concert is led by a conductor – a highly trained musician who guides the orchestra to produce an excellent performance of the composer’s music. In 2020, we have the immense privilege of having some of the greatest Australian and international conductors leading the orchestra.
Each one brings their own talent and personality to our concerts, making every Queensland Symphony Orchestra concert unique. Also, remember how we said that concertos are musical works for solo instrument and orchestra? 2021 sees us celebrate this art form with a great line-up of soloists visiting from the country.
Do I need to know anything about music?
Short answer? No! We find people who are new to the orchestra have just as good a time as those who have been coming for years. But if you’re interested, we host pre-concert talks at most of our performances where you can find out more about the music being performed. You can also learn more in our printed listening guides, which are available free at every performance.
So what do I wear?
This one’s easy – wear whatever you want! Some audience members love to dress up whilst others prefer to come casual. You’ll notice our musicians wear black, but whatever you want to wear is fine with us!
And when do I clap?
Orchestra music is broken up into sections called movements - think of it like courses in a meal. Some people prefer to save their applause for the end of a work, whereas others like to show their appreciation as each section finishes.
Anything else?
We think our concerts are the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, and there are lots of ways to make the experience memorable. Why not enjoy a meal before or after a performance at one of South Bank’s great dining options? Or perhaps you’d prefer a coffee or glass of wine in the foyer bars? Whatever you choose, we suggest allowing yourself a little time before a concert to relax and find your seats.