QUEENSLAND ORCHESTRA 2007 PROGRAM TO THRILL MUSIC LOVERS

Orchestra performances in northern and regional Queensland and appearances by jazz legend Herbie Hancock and Australian rock band The Whitlams will be highlights of Queensland Orchestra’s 2007 season.

Arts Minister, Rod Welford, today launched the Orchestra’s 2007 Season, saying the diversity of next year’s program would thrill Queensland music lovers of all types.

“Audiences will delight in classic concerts, a regional touring program, educational activities and community events,” Mr Welford said.

“Queensland favourite, The Whitlams, will once again be performing some of their hits with the orchestra and today Tim Freedman gave us a bit of a preview of what to expect.

“The regional touring program will take in the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.

“The orchestra has recently returned from central and northern Queensland from a sell-out tour and I’m sure it’s set to repeat this success again.

“The highly-successful Kiddies Cushion Concerts will also return to delight children and encourage a new generation of music listeners.

“The Maestro Series has been extended to 10 concerts, with appearances by the world’s finest soloists and conductors, from Australia and overseas.”

Mr Welford said the Beattie Government recognised the importance of the state’s orchestra to Queensland’s cultural growth.

“Earlier this year we approved additional funding for the orchestra of $2.2 million over four years, on top of the state’s annual contribution of $2.2 million, as part of a funding package with the Commonwealth,” he said.

“The orchestra is important not only culturally but also economically, as it’s the single largest employer of classical musicians in the state,” he said.

“It also does commissions, recordings and broadcasts, orchestral services for our performing arts companies and is involved with many of our major festivals.

The orchestra’s 2007 concert details are available at www.thequeenslandorchestra.com.au.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 32371000 or 0419 734 985