Calendar 3 2011 - An orchestral 'dream team'

Internationally acclaimed conductor Alexander Briger had a dream; to unite Australia’s best expatriate musicians at a concert series in Australia. In August, he realised this dream when the Australian World Orchestra (AWO) concert series delivered four exceptional events in Sydney.

This was a meeting of the orchestral equivalent of the ‘dream team’. A 92-strong ensemble including 48 overseas-based musicians performed three concerts at the Sydney Opera House and one at Parramatta.

As part of this inaugural concert series, the AWO invited CAL’s Cultural Fund to support its education program – through tailored Masterclasses with leading musicians and students; through mentoring young and upcoming performers and in workshops held with 75 students from more than 20 Western Sydney schools. After a day of rehearsals and workshops, both students and the AWO orchestra played together in a combined public concert at Riverside Theatre Parramatta.

The Sunday matinee family event at the Sydney Opera House also provided the opportunity for younger fans to mingle with players and Her Excellency, the Governor, Professor Marie Bashir, AC, CVO, before enjoying a great afternoon of classical entertainment including an Australian work, Earth Cry featuring the leading orchestral didgeridoo player William Barton.

CAL’s Cultural Fund was delighted to support the AWO’s concert series and it’s through projects like this, we remain committed to creating excellent resources and supporting the education sector. We look forward to more in 2013.