| Absolutely British! | Australian Philharmonic Orchestra |
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The Australian Philharmonic Orchestra is thrilled to celebrate the stirring music of Britain in two exhilarating performances at Sydney Opera House Concert Hall on Saturday 18 October, 2pm and 8pm.
Showcasing some of the most electrifying and moving music from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, both concerts are guaranteed to be rousing and unforgettable. From British hymns Jerusalem and Pie Jesu, to the traditional Irish song The Last Rose of Summer with beautiful lyrics by the poet Thomas Moore, to the popular wartime song There’ll Always Be England and Procul Harum’s 1967 hit Whiter Shade of Pale, ‘Absolutely British!’ delivers an extensive program of British classics.
Hear the Orchestral March Crown Imperial by English composer William Walton that was originally composed for the coronation of King Edward VIII, who abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson. Edward’s brother took the throne, and the Orchestral March was performed when he was crowned King George VI in 1937.
Featuring Australian tenor Roy Best, one of the extraordinary 2006 winners of ABC Television’s Operatunity Oz (Opera talent competition) who came to national prominence after his televised performance of the Duke in Opera Australia’s Rigoletto on ABC TV.
“I’m so excited to be performing these classics of British music at the Sydney Opera House – it’s a dream come true to be standing up there in front of the Australian Philharmonic Orchestra, and to have the opportunity to perform these amazing songs,” said Roy Best.
Joining Roy Best will be celebrated soprano Emily Xiao Wang and acclaimed trumpet player Claire O’Brien. Conducted by Benjamin Northey and supported by the Willoughby Symphony Choir and the Macquarie University Singers, the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall will be bursting with the sounds of British music.
Prominent English born Australian actor, singer and producer Terry Gill is compering both performances. Well loved by audiences from his roles in Homicide, Division 4, Matlock, A Country Practice and Prisoner, Terry Gill brings his love of Ol’ Blighty to the stage of the Sydney Opera House for ‘Absolutely British!’.
“I may have been in Australia for over 30 years, but the music of Britain can still rouse me. It’s the music that has shaped many generations of Britons, it’s been the soundtrack to war and peace, and from royalty and empire to pop culture,” said Terry Gill.
Australian Philharmonic Orchestra
Absolutely British!
Sydney Opera House Concert Hall
Saturday 18 October 2008 2pm and 8pm
Tickets: Adults: $99 / $88 / $77 / $45 Concessions: $94 / $83 / $72 / n/a
Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com or 02 9250 7777
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