James Morrison takes to the stage for big brass blast

Jazz virtuoso James Morrison will headline The World According to Brass at Brisbane’s Riverstage as part of the G20 Cultural Celebrations.

Arts Minister Ian Walker said the musical extravaganza presented in association with Queensland Music Festival was one of the many events that would help welcome G20, which would bring about $100 million into Brisbane.

“There will be 4,000 delegates and about 3,000 media who will visit Brisbane during the G20, making it a once in a generation opportunity for Queensland,” Mr Walker said.

“We expect the economic benefits to flow across the state through increased business opportunities, on top of the initial boost to the tourism industry and that is worth celebrating.

“We want to reward the people of Brisbane in the lead up to the G20 Leaders Summit and showcase the talent we have in the performing arts industry at the same time.

“This event will highlight the impressive talent Brisbane has to offer, not only to the local community but also to international visitors and media.

“We encourage families and friends to bring a picnic blanket and come down to Brisbane Riverstage to relax under the stars for this free toe-tapping concert.”

Creative director of the G20 Cultural Celebration Athol Young said The World According to Brass was just one part of the extensive music program included in the celebrations.

“As part of the Riverstage Concert series, we will see cultural events such as SpringFlare and Coppelia performed by Queensland Ballet and the Camerata of St John’s, under the stars and free for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Young said.

James Morrison will take to the stage with an array of special guest artists including Brisbane Brass, Brisbane Excelsior Band, South Brisbane Federal Band, Queensland Police Pipe Band, Queensland Highlanders and Queensland Irish Association Pipe Band. It will also feature the Queensland Conservatorium’s – The Con Artists, Queensland Choir and guest soloists.

The multi-instrumentalist said music was the perfect medium to welcome international guests to Brisbane, as well as celebrate our local culture with a home town audience.

“The thing about music is it’s so universal,” Morrison said.

“You can play some great music and you don’t have to say ‘Well this is music from this country and this is music from that country’.

“What country does brass come from? Well, take your pick. There’s brass music everywhere in the world.”

The free concert, hosted by the Queensland Government in association with Queensland Music Festival, will commence at 7pm on Friday 7 November and is suitable for people of all ages. It does not require bookings.

The concert is part of the G20 Cultural Celebrations, which run from October 24 – November 16. It features hundreds of free community events including live music programs, interactive lighting and projection displays across Brisbane city, pop-up dance performances, street performances, community BBQs and multicultural community events.

The World According To Brass :

When: Friday 7 November at 7pm (gates open at 5.30pm)

Where: Brisbane Riverstage

Tickets: Free entry event. No bookings required

More info: Bring your own picnic, chair and blanket. We recommend you catch public transport to this event. For information visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30.

For more information www.qld.gov.au/g20cultural

[ENDS] 3 October 2014

Media Contact: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332

Alex Stokes - P4 Group 0429 119 653