The Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra
Next concert: NSW Secondary Schools Concerto Competition, Saturday 4th July, 2009
Saturday 14th March, 8.00pm
Ravenswood Centenary Centre Auditorium, Henry St, Gordon

The Aurora from Finland

Innovation and Liberation

Sibelius' heroic Second Symphony is associated with the struggle for Finland's independence. With its delectable melodies and brilliant orchestration, the symphony's triumphant first performance in 1902 exceeded expectations and has remained popular with audiences ever since.

The first performance of Beethoven's 4th Piano Concerto with the composer at the piano was his final public appearance as soloist. The contemplative, serene opening sets the scene for an innovative, poetic work; one which has become a staple of the piano repertoire. Liszt likened the role of the piano in the second movement to that of Orpheus taming the wild beasts with his lyre. This is a truly beautiful work.

Milhaud's Creation of the World based on African folk mythology, was composed for ballet. Captivated by the new sounds of jazz in the early 1920s, this was an opportunity for Milhaud to incorporate this new style from Harlem jazz venues into his own music. The mix of cheeky sounds, upbeat rhythms and bluesy harmonies is whimsical and enticing.

Soloist: Tamara Anna Cislowska, piano
Conductor: John Nottle

Milhaud     -     La Creation du Monde
Beethoven     -     Piano Concerto No.4
Sibelius     -     Symphony No.2
Website design: Martin Brown                     Photographs: Chris Hayles, Marjorie Hystek
The Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra reserves the right to vary programs and/or venues without notice.