Rangebow’s sweet symphony

By Jennifer Kent

SCHOOL children from across the Range will sit side-by-side with experienced musicians from the Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra under the clear marquee for the Moonlight Symphony event on Friday, August 12 as part of The Rangebow Festival’s program of events.

Music students from Glenview State School, Maleny State School and High School, and Montville State School have, over the past six months, been involved in a musical mentorship program with Topology, brought to life by The Rangebow Festival’s artistic director Skye Parker.

“Some of our local schools are just far enough away to not always get the same amount of access to music, and opportunities to be involved in musical programs,” said Skye. “We want to give our students access to the same opportunities as other schools. We want our music programs to keep growing.”

As well as rehearsals for their upcoming performance alongside the SCSO, students have been busy creating their own piece of music for the performance; renowned composer John Babbage transforming the students’ compositions specifically for the combined orchestra to perform.

Come rain, hail or perfect star shine, performing under the marquee as part of the Moonlight Symphony program will be emerging youth artists from across the range, supported by world renowned chamber orchestra Topology. The Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra will be joined by students from the Rangebow Children’s Orchestra to perform their original compositions, before finishing the evening ending in toe-tapping style with a varied musical repertoire by the Symphony Orchestra. Principal conductor of the Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra, Adrian King, shared they are really excited to be a part of the festival.

“We have a program of varied music, which I’m sure will appeal to everyone,” said Adrian. As for performing with students from the mentorship program, Adrian explained that it’s wonderful to make music with young musicians, and tailor to suit everybody. “[Bringing the compositions to life] is really fantastic and show’s a great level of musicality,” he said. “We’re looking forward to rehearsing together next week, and for our performance on August 12.”

Tickets for the Moonlight Symphony performance held at Russell Family Park, Montville are available here: www.therangebowfestival.org