Supporters
Tony Rea and David Chew
Tony Rea and David Chew have been part of QSO’s Music Chair Program since 2021, supporting Nicky Tomkin, Viola.
What is your favourite memory or experience with QSO?
As there are two of us, there are two memories to share. The performance including the dynamic and spectacular ‘Rite of Spring’ is a stand-out. The QSO captured the grace and lyricism of the ‘Prelude to the afternoon of a faun’ in the insightful and sensitive portrayal of the flute solo by Alison Mitchell. The other one that brilliantly showcased the flexibility and sense of fun of the QSO was the John Williams’ ‘Cinematic’, when the trombones dressed as stormtroopers played the ‘Imperial March’ from ‘Star Wars’ as Darth Vader strode in, to great acclaim.
Why is it important to you to support QSO?
The QSO enriches the lives of many under the baton of the legendary Umberto Clerici, not just in Brisbane, but in rural communities and schools of this expansive state of Queensland. We hope we assist in some way to allow the QSO to continue this important calling. Through this connection, we’ve come to know our Musical Chair Program recipient, violist Nicky Tomkin, whom we consider a friend. This connection enriches our lives by providing a little window into the interpretation of the different musical genres and the workings of the orchestra when we attend rehearsals such as Berlioz’ ‘Symphonie Fantastique’.
What would you say to those considering supporting QSO?
We don’t believe this should be purely for the recognition. Supporting allows a certain intimacy and involvement with our own unique orchestra and a chance to network. It allows QSO to explore collaborations and furthers its outreach, bringing the magic of music to enrich and change lives for the better. After all, what is more important than that?
Who is your favourite composer or what is your favourite piece of music?
Tony’s favourite is Richard Wagner’s ‘Ring Cycle’ for the contrast of power and dynamism to meandering leitmotifs based on folklore and legend.
David’s taste is too eclectic to choose one. He is currently interested in works by Chen Gang, William Barton, Arturo Márquez and Christopher Tin, and music by Joseph Tawadros (Melbourne) and Mzaza (Brisbane).
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