Music royalty in town

Classical music experience reimagined this week

Music royalty is headed to Mount Gambier this week when award winning oboist Celia Craig touches down for a series of workshops and performances.

Celia’s visit is an Arts South Australia-supported residency with Celia set to be joined by cellist Thomas Marlin and pianist Michael Ierace, known together as Trio Tarrawatta.

The trio are engaging and internationally acclaimed classical musicians and are headed to Mount Gambier from Thursday to Saturday for a community event demystifying and exploring music through a program of interactive activities for all ages.

The visit will culminate in a performance at the Wehl Street Theatre of their ‘Songs without Words’ residency.

With partnership from Adelaide’s Consortium Music, the residency will renew positive relationships with amateur, student musicians, local teachers, timed towards the end of the school holidays. Consortium Music will provide free repairs, sales, advice and guided instrument trials including beginner oboe lessons with Celia.

Winner of the Justice Elizabeth Fullarton Excellence in Classical National Music Award, Celia Craig’s previous locally-delivered projects in the area have included ‘Colours of Home’ with Musica Viva, twice touring in local schools, featured soloist for Limestone Coast Symphony, and a schools residency with musicians supported by Musica Viva with the Australian Government Restart and Investment Fund, RISE.

Celia’s oboe teaching is supported by Stand Like Stone Foundation, while prolific cellist and teacher Thomas Marlin will offer individual lessons for all standards of string players, and Elder Conservatorium staff member Michael Ierace will focus on keyboard and arranging skills. There is also an open rehearsal on Friday where people can watch and ask questions.

“This project ‘Songs without Words’ provides something for anyone- with or without music experience- our Saturday program starts with fixing and choosing instruments” said Celia. “People can just pop in while we rehearse at Wehl Street Theatre, receive personalised coaching, or find the best instrument for their child with Consortium Music before our lunchtime concert at 1pm.”

More details, tickets, expressions of interest for half price instrumental lessons, are available through Humanitix, the not for profit using booking fees to fund education projects for the world’s most disadvantaged children to close the global education gap.