Elder Hall shines in evening concert series

Music

The 2010 Evenings at Elder Hall concert season begins at the University of Adelaide this month.

The five-concert subscription series - from May to November - features a range of musical stars from Australia and overseas, and includes the musicians, choirs and ensembles of the University's Elder Conservatorium of Music.

"This season will thrill audiences with a series of diverse and exciting programs," said Elder Hall Manager Claire Oremland.

"The variety ensures that there is something for everyone, with orchestral, jazz, choral and operatic concerts in the season. The line-up includes some big talent."

The season opens on Saturday 15 May with the Elder Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra performing with rising star Konstantin Shamray.

"Shamray is one of the most exciting pianists to win the Sydney International Piano Competition, and Adelaide is like a second home to him," Ms Oremland said.

"For this opening concert, we know he will bring a very special 'shine' to Rachmaninov's 3rd Piano Concerto. Dvorák's Symphony No.9, From the New World - voted Australia's most popular symphony on ABC FM's Classic 100 Symphony Countdown - is also on the program."

In July, one of the most influential figures in the world of wind orchestras, Tim Reynish from the UK, will conduct the Elder Conservatorium Wind Orchestra.

Mike Nock, one of the greats of Australian jazz, celebrates his 70th birthday in August with the Elder Conservatorium Contemporary Jazz Ensemble and the Mike Nock Trio.

"In September, the stunning surrounds of St Peter's Cathedral will play host to the Three Choirs and Chamber Orchestra of the Elder Conservatorium, in an evening that features Vivaldi's sublime baroque masterpiece, Gloria," Ms Oremland said.

Finally in November - as part of the cultural festival Odyssey - a tribute to Greek/American soprano Maria Callas will feature some great and much-loved operatic works, including Nessun Dorma, one of the world's most beloved arias.

Elder Hall will again host the Masterclass Series in 2010.

"In partnership with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and Musica Viva, the Elder Conservatorium is able to bring artists of international renown to Elder Hall for Masterclasses that anyone can enjoy," Ms Oremland said.

"This year, these classes will include Australian jazz legend James Morrison and Catriona O'Leary, known for her extraordinary performance in Traditional Irish Song and 'Early Music'.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for members of the public to be part of the creative process, with extraordinary artists guiding young musicians and sharing their own understanding, experience, views, and music making," she said.

For a free brochure, bookings or information about Evenings at Elder Hall or the Masterclass Series, call Claire Oremland on +61 8 8303 5925, email claire.oremland@adelaide.edu.au or visit: www.elderhall.adelaide.edu.au