Curtain Call: Portraits

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Portraits series!

Across two unforgettable performances, including a sold-out Saturday evening on 14 February, Queensland Symphony Orchestra celebrated two extraordinary artists at the heart of our orchestra.

Under the direction of Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici, every phrase carried emotional intensity and expressive integrity, setting the stage for the launch of our new Portraits series.

We began with a tribute to our brilliant Principal Flute, Alison Mitchell. Featuring excerpts that trace the arc of her remarkable career, alongside her first performance of Reinecke’s Flute Concerto, the program offered a vibrant and deeply personal portrait of one of our most treasured musicians.

We then turned to Principal Harp, Emily Granger, for a program filled with light and love. At its centre was the world premiere of a new harp concerto by her husband, composer Tristan Coelho. Intimate in spirit and expansive in sound, the work drew on the full colour of the orchestra to create something truly mesmerising.

Thank you for choosing to spend your evenings with us. We are so grateful to share these moments, and we look forward to many more.

“Alison danced her way through the Concerto, sharing the wonders of her flute with the audience. The music was lyrical and cheerful, and the audience was delighted.”
–Kerry McGovern, Westender
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“Granger’s playing was generously communicative and easeful, and she clearly relished stepping from the orchestral ranks into the spotlight – a move warmly supported by her colleagues’ attentive commitment.”
–Gillian Wills, Limelight
Read the ★★★★⯨ review here

“Emily’s performance and presentation was wonderful. She brought the Coelho concerto to life. The accompanying pieces perfectly balanced the modern piece. Great program!”
–Concert Attendee

“A great initiative by QSO, to feature their excellent individual players. Umberto Clerici is a gem, and we are so very lucky to have him grace our orchestra. Long may the partnership continue!”
–Concert Attendee