Strong competition for positions at Music School

Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20 December 2002

Strong competition for positions at Music School

The Auckland Philharmonia Academy’s annual Summer Music School, now in its fourth year, begins on Thursday 16 January at St Cuthbert’s College in Auckland. Approximately 80 musicians from all over New Zealand and Australia will be joined by the full complement of Auckland Philharmonia players to participate in the school which culminates in a (public) Grande Finale Concert on Tuesday 21 January.

Included in the line-up of participating musicians are three tuba players. Jonathan Baker, Principal Tuba with the Auckland Philharmonia, is delighted with the enthusiasm coming from his corner of the brass section. “The number of people playing the tuba at a high level is definitely on the rise,” he says, “so positions in the likes of orchestras, music schools and masterclasses are becoming increasingly competitive. We’ve certainly noticed that as the Summer Music School is increasing its profile and getting greater exposure (on both a national and international level), the competition for places is increasing. And from a brass player’s perspective it’s encouraging to see members of the brass band world interested in having an orchestral experience,” he adds.

The unique quality of the Summer Music School lies in the participants’ ability to sit next to professional players from the Auckland Philharmonia throughout rehearsals and performances. Designed to cater for a wide range of musical talent and experience, the school offers two complementary programmes. The “Affiliate” programme, for keen amateurs and students aged 16 and over, provides a nurturing, yet inspiring environment, with each section of the orchestra augmented by at least one, and often several Auckland Philharmonia players who serve as leaders and coaches.

By audition only, the competitive “Fellowship” programme provides the opportunity for very talented and accomplished musicians to experience an authentic orchestral environment as each “fellow” joins the majority of Auckland Philharmonia players for the duration of the school. In addition, the Summer Music School offers chamber music, masterclasses, sectionals, coaching and workshops. The school also promises that every participant will leave a much stronger musician than when they arrived.

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Open to the general public, the Grande Finale Concert, at 11am on Tuesday 21 January, features two hours of orchestral music by both the Affiliate and Fellowship Orchestras – included in the programme are works by Brahms, Shostakovich, Berlioz, and the world première of From Dancing Light by New Zealand composer John Elmsly, a work specially commissioned by the Auckland Philharmonia. During interval there is a barbeque for the audience and musicians. Adult tickets $30 – this includes the concert and barbeque. For bookings phone the Auckland Philharmonia on 0800-PHILHARMONIA (0800-744 542).

Auckland Philharmonia Academy Summer Music School supported by the Endeavour Charitable Trust and Aotea Centre Performing Arts Trust.

ENDS

For further information, photos, interviews, contact Caroline Nelson, Publicist, Auckland Philharmonia, phone 638 7073, 025 244 1299, email crn@aucklandphil.co.nz

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