The sound of music rings out in the chapel

Lismore Symphony Orchestra will play in St Andrew’s Anglican Church this weekend, returning for the first time to the venue where it all began 20 years ago.

The orchestra held its first concert at the church in 2004 and now has grown to a cohort of up to 50 musicians.

Orchestra manager Margaret Stewart said it was a “nice thing” to be returning to the venue.

“It adds another level of atmosphere, the acoustics can be great. It’s very exhilarating to be in this space,” Mrs Stewart said.

“To play in a group is incredibly uplifting. The music just builds and you just feed off each other, even in rehearsals, but performance brings out something new.”

Professional soprano soloist Gaynor Morgan will join the orchestra to sing, and it will be led by conductor Sonia Lopes.

Many regions have community orchestras, but Ms Stewart said the Lismore Symphony Orchestra was lucky to have a lot of really good players to call on.

“We’ve got a great mix of people. There’s an incredible mix of people, from all walks of life really and different age ranges.”

The orchestra will draw inspiration from the natural elements of earth, wind, fire, and water, for the weekend’s concerts, featuring works by some of the world’s most celebrated composers.

The orchestra will play pieces such as Stravinsky’s Firebird Finale, Joe Hisaishi’s Symphonic Fantasia on the Valley of the Winds, Dvořák’s The Water Goblin, and Villa-Lobos’ Canto na Floresta.

These works are chosen to transport the audience to the heart of the forest, capturing the pulse and vitality of the natural world. The concerts are at St Andrew’s Anglican Church tomorrow (Saturday, November 16) at 7pm and this Sunday, November 17 at 2pm.

Tickets are available at the door.

Ms Stewart said the orchestra was very grateful to Saint Andrew’s and Father Lindon for allowing them to perform there.

The orchestra has a strong relationship with the Northern Rivers Conservatorium that fosters new musicians to join the ranks, but the group is always looking for new talented musicians, particularly those who play string instruments.

Contact the group at [email protected].