QUEENSLAND ORCHESTRA 2008 PROGRAM TO THRILL MUSIC LOVERS

Arts Minister Rod Welford today welcomed The Queensland Orchestra’s 2008 Season, the first under new Chief Conductor Maestro Johannes Fritzsch.

“Next year’s colourful and vibrant program promises to thrill Queensland music lovers of all types,” Mr Welford said.

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

“In 2008 the regional touring program will take in Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and the Sunshine and Gold Coasts.

“The highly-successful Kiddies Cushion Concerts, featuring new presenter, Playschool’s George Spartels, will also return to encourage a new generation of music listeners.

“There will also be 10 concerts in the Maestro Series, with appearances by some of the world’s finest soloists and conductors, including piano superstars Pascal Rogé, Cyprien Katsaris and Boris Berman.”

Mr Welford said the State Government was a proud supporter of The Queensland Orchestra, contributing $2.2 million annually, as part of a funding package with the Commonwealth.

“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 commissions new works, delivers recordings and broadcasts, and provides orchestral services for our performing arts companies, along with key involvement in many of our major festivals.

“As an indication of the orchestra’s recent success, last year its total box office income increased for the third consecutive year – up 50 per cent on the company’s previous year results.

“Attendances also increased – mainstage performances by 30 per cent and total audience numbers by 17 per cent to 63,517.”

The orchestra’s 2008 concert details are available at www.thequeenslandorchestra.com.au

Media contact: Emma Clarey on 3237 1000