CHURCH BELLS RING WITH SOUNDS OF BRAZIL

Torquay music man Max Rudd will perform as part of the Windfire Choir and Orchestra this Sunday at St Mary of the Angels Basilica, Geelong.

Led by Melbourne-based conductor Rick Prakhoff, the Windfire Choir and Orchestra will collaborate with Max Rudd on seven-string guitar and Oliver Bonnici on violin.

The performance will be a celebration of classical music from Brazil, a genre Max has both studied and performed in Australia and South America.

“Brazilians have created a culture where music doesn’t just accompany social events, it is the central point of social events,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to this performance because it represents a celebration of Brazilian music here in Geelong and shows the depth of arts and culture in our region.

Geelong is a heavy lifter in Australia when it comes to attracting worldclass musicians.

“Oliver Bonnici is a French violinist who forged a career in England, and Rick Prakhoff is one of Australia’s most celebrated conductors, having worked for Melbourne Opera, the Sydney Youth Orchestra and the Zelman Symphony.”

Max said he considered himself lucky to have been born and raised in Torquay as it has not hindered his ability to make global connections.

He also said the concert will include a premiere of his arrangement of Heitor Villa-Lobos’ Brazilian Popular Suite for guitar and ensemble.

“It proves that living in a small coastal town has not limited my opportunities for growth in these
early stages of my career, and I feel fortunate that I have been given the chance to premiere my
arrangement, thanks to the support of the community and benefactors,” Max said.

Presented by local community organisation Music at the Basilica, the Windfire Choir and Orchestra will perform from 3pm this Sunday July 28.

St Mary’s is located at 136 Yarra Street, Geelong. General tickets are $50 per person. Children and school students attend free. Visit trybooking.com to secure yours.