Queensland Symphony Orchestra's CMRT Initiative Continues to Share Music with Western Queensland

Queensland Symphony Orchestra's CMRT Initiative Continues to Share Music with Western Queensland

Brisbane, Queensland - Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) is thrilled to announce the return of its Chinchilla, Miles, Roma and Tara (CMRT) touring initiative in 2024, aimed at sharing the joy of music with communities in Western Queensland.

Thanks to our lasting partnerships with Australia Pacific LNG operated by Origin Energy and following the resounding success of the 2023 tour, QSO is committed to continuing its mission of making music accessible to as many people as possible across our state. The CMRT initiative will see QSO embark on a series of workshops for community musicians, school concerts and free public performances in regional communities, providing unique opportunities for locals to experience the magic of live orchestral music.

2024 marks the eighth year of this regional touring initiative. Since its inception, over 21 schools have been involved with the program, with QSO hosting 81 student workshops and rehearsals, performing 40 school concerts. 2024 students who have participated in the program, and 8764 students that have attended school concerts. In addition to the educational elements of this program, QSO have delivered 17 community concerts with a total of 3805 attendees.

“Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s regional engagement enriches the lives of students, teachers and communities, providing unparalleled opportunities to enjoy, learn from, and perform alongside the state’s best musicians.” says Dan Clark, CEO of Australia Pacific LNG.

“We believe that everyone, no matter where they’re from, deserves to experience the transformative power of music. Queensland Symphony Orchestra truly is an Orchestra for all Queenslanders, and we are delighted to play our part in helping them fulfil that vision.”

Under the CMRT initiative, QSO also collaborate with local schools and community groups to deliver a range of educational and outreach programs. These programs will include workshops, masterclasses and performances, allowing participants to engage with members of the orchestra, benefit from their mentorship and gain insights into the world of classical music. By fostering a love for music and nurturing talent, QSO aims to inspire the next generation of musicians and music enthusiasts.

The CMRT initiative aligns with the QSO's commitment to promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity within the Australian Arts industries. By reaching out to regional communities, the orchestra aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring that all Queenslanders have access to high-quality cultural experiences. QSO believes that music has the power to unite communities, transcend barriers, and enrich lives, and is dedicated to making this vision a reality.

In addition to the educational and outreach programs, the CMRT initiative will feature a series of captivating concerts by QSO who will perform alongside their mentees, providing them with invaluable performance experience. Audiences in Western Queensland can look forward to experiencing the orchestra's exceptional talent and artistry firsthand, as they perform a diverse repertoire of classical masterpieces and contemporary works. These performances will not only entertain but also inspire and uplift, leaving a lasting impact on the communities they visit.

“The way that QSO connects consistently and deeply with the community on our CMRT Tour shows very clearly how we have dismantled that old trope which paints symphony orchestras as niche, distant and removed from their audiences. QSO is anything but; we are broad, warm and engaged. We have the community itself to thank for this; they have welcomed us and it’s a privilege to repay their generosity with the gift of music” says Yarmila Alfonzetti, Chief Executive of Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

For more information about the CMRT initiative and Queensland Symphony Orchestra, please visit qso.com.au/CMRT24 or watch last year’s inspiring 2023 Tour.

Chinchilla / Jinchilla – Thursday July 23 @ 6:30PM

COUNTRY HOPE CHURCH - 3 BURBANK STREET, CHINCHILLA Q 4413

Queensland Symphony Orchestra ensemble join with musicians from Chinchilla Christian College Concert Band, Chinchilla State High School Concert Band, Chinchilla Combined Primary Concert Band, Chinchilla Community Concert Band, and Chinchilla Community Jazz Band for this free community concert. No bookings required.

qso.com.au/events/2023/Regional-Concerts/chinchilla-community-in-concert-2023

Tara – Wednesday July 24 @ 11:30AM

TARA MEMORIAL HALL - 19 FRY STREET, TARA Q 4421

Musicians from Queensland Symphony Orchestra Connect Ensemble will perform a free concert for the Tara community. No bookings required.

https://qso.com.au/events/2024/regional-concerts/tara-community-concert

Roma / Mandandanji – Friday July 26 @ 6:30PM

ROMA BUNGIL CULTURAL CENTRE - 57 BUNGIL ST, ROMA Q 4455

https://qso.com.au/events/2024/regional-concerts/roma-community-in-concert-2024

Musicians from QSO Connect Ensemble join with musicians from Maranoa Music, Roma Combined Schools Concert Band, Roma Combined Schools String Ensemble and Roma Community Orchestra for this free community concert. No bookings required.

About Queensland Symphony Orchestra:

Queensland Symphony Orchestra is an internationally acclaimed orchestra based in Brisbane, Queensland. With a rich history spanning over 75 years, QSO is renowned for its exceptional performances and commitment to artistic excellence. The orchestra plays a vital role in the cultural landscape of Queensland, delighting audiences with its diverse repertoire, unique concert experiences and world-class musicianship.

For any Media & Public Relations enquiries please contact:

Beth Uttley

0430 726 564

beth@aruga.com.au