Concert Program

Voices en Masse: Choral Classics

Saturday 11 Oct 2025 7:30pm
Federation Concert Hall, Nipaluna / Hobart

Looking for tickets? Go here.

Hundreds of voices. The best
of choral music. One
extraordinary sound.
A conductor leads a full orchestra and choir during a live concert performance, with the audience in the foreground and musicians and singers actively engaged on stage.

The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra acknowledges the traditional owners and continuing custodians of Lutruwita / Tasmania. We pay respect to the Aboriginal community today, and to its Elders past and present. We recognise a history of truth, which acknowledges the impacts of colonisation upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and stand for a future that profoundly respects their stories, culture, language and history.

About the concert

Works

Mozart The Marriage of Figaro: Overture (4 mins)

Handel Messiah (11 mins)

  1. And the Glory of the Lord
  2. For unto us a Child is Born
  3. Hallelujah Chorus

Haydn The Creation (13 mins)

  1. The Representation of Chaos
  2. The Heavens are Telling
  3. Achieved is the Glorious Work

Mozart Ave verum corpus, K618 (3 mins)

Mendelssohn Elijah, Op 70 (10 mins)

  1. Overture
  2. No 1: ‘Help, Lord!
  3. Recitative

Parry arr. Rutter I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me (6 mins)

Verdi Il Trovatore: Anvil Chorus (3 mins)

Verdi Nabucco: ‘Va, pensiero’ (4 mins)

ANAM Concerto Competition

The ANAM Concerto Competition is a partnership between the Australian National Academy of Music and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, and is supported by Lady Potter, AC. This performance is being recorded for delayed broadcast by ABC Classic.

Image

Simon Halsey, conductor.

Concert 101: Learn about the works being performed

For the enjoyment of all in the concert hall, please only watch Concert 101 before or after the performance. 

Uncover the stories behind the works.

Sparkling. Witty. Breathless.

The Marriage of Figaro: Overture

Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)

4 minutes

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro is one of the best-loved operas of all time, and its overture has taken on a life of its own in concert halls around the world. Composed in 1786, the overture sets the stage for an evening of comedy, romance, and intrigue. Even without the singers or scenery, the music gives us a taste of the opera’s spirit: full of energy, wit, and a touch of mischief.

From the very first notes, the overture is brisk and sparkling. The strings dart and dance with quick, light figures, suggesting characters hurrying in and out of rooms, keeping secrets, or hatching plots. Mozart’s opera tells the story of Figaro, a clever servant, who uses his wits to outsmart his employer, Count Almaviva, and ensure his own marriage goes ahead as planned. The overture doesn’t quote directly from the opera’s arias or ensembles, but it captures the mood of lively confusion and bubbling excitement that drives the story.

One of the most striking features of the overture is its sense of forward momentum. The music hardly pauses for breath, building suspense as though the curtain is about to rise at any moment. Gentle woodwind interludes add contrast, but they are quickly swept aside as the strings and full orchestra surge forward once again. The effect is exhilarating – a musical whirlwind that leaves listeners smiling and eager for more.

Mozart’s Figaro overture has become a concert favourite not only for its brilliance but also for its sheer joy. In just a few minutes, it encapsulates the sparkle, elegance, and humour of one of opera’s greatest comedies, reminding us of Mozart’s extraordinary gift for combining sophistication with light-hearted fun.

Majestic. Uplifting. Timeless.

Messiah

  1. And the Glory of the Lord
  2. For unto us a Child is Born
  3. Hallelujah Chorus

Composed by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759)

11 minutes

💡 FIRST-TIMER TIP

The names of movements in symphonies often follow traditional conventions that give insight into the character, tempo, and sometimes the form of each section.

These terms not only instruct performers on the tempo and mood of each movement but also guide listeners through the emotional and narrative arc of the symphony. For example, ‘Allegro’ refers to tempo and ‘molto’ translates to very, so: very fast!

George Frideric Handel’s Messiah is one of the most beloved works in all of classical music. Written in just 24 days in 1741, this oratorio has become especially cherished at Christmas and Easter, when choirs and audiences gather to celebrate its stirring choruses and uplifting message. Rather than telling a single story, Messiah unfolds in three large sections that reflect on the life of Christ – from prophecy and birth, to passion and resurrection, to the promise of eternal life.

Among the most joyful moments comes early in the work with And the Glory of the Lord. This is the first chorus of Messiah, and it immediately establishes the sense of collective praise that defines the piece. Handel layers the voices in rich counterpoint, weaving together different musical ideas until the whole choir bursts into radiant sound, affirming the promise of God’s glory revealed to all people.

Another highlight is For unto us a Child is Born, which sets words from the prophet Isaiah. Handel gives the text a sense of warmth and grandeur, as voices tumble and intertwine in playful imitation before joining together in exultation. The music captures both the intimacy of a child’s birth and the majesty of the titles bestowed – ‘Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.’

The most famous moment of all, of course, is the Hallelujah Chorus. Positioned near the end of Part II, it celebrates Christ’s victory and eternal reign. The repeated cries of “Hallelujah” and the triumphant orchestral writing create a sense of overwhelming joy. Tradition holds that audiences stand when this chorus is performed – a gesture of respect that continues to this day.

Joyful. Radiant. Awe-inspiring.

The Creation

  1. The Representation of Chaos
  2. The Heavens are Telling
  3. Achieved is the Glorious Work

Composed by Franz Joseph Haydn (1732–1809)

13 minutes

Joseph Haydn’s The Creation is one of the crowning achievements of the Classical era, a radiant oratorio inspired by the Biblical story of creation. Written in the late 1790s after Haydn’s triumphant visits to London, the work reflects both his deep faith and his joy in nature’s beauty. Its music is full of invention, drama, and brilliance, qualities that captured the imagination of audiences from its very first performance.

The opening movement, The Representation of Chaos, is especially striking. At a time when most music followed clear rules and order, Haydn begins with something entirely different. The harmonies wander unpredictably, the rhythms are unsettled, and the mood shifts constantly. The effect is extraordinary: the orchestra paints a picture of a world before light, form, or structure – true chaos. When order finally arrives with the creation of light, the music bursts forth with blazing energy, a moment that still astonishes listeners.

Later in the oratorio, The Heavens are Telling brings the choir and orchestra together in a grand hymn of praise. The text comes from Psalm 19, celebrating the glory of God revealed in the skies. Haydn’s music sparkles with brightness, the voices entering in layers that echo the grandeur of the heavens themselves. This chorus has become one of the most beloved in the entire oratorio, a joyful proclamation of nature’s beauty and order.

The triumphant chorus Achieved is the Glorious Work comes near the end of Part II, after the creation of living creatures. Here, Haydn conveys a sense of completeness and satisfaction. The choir and orchestra sing together in a spirit of celebration, their jubilant sound affirming the wonder of creation now brought to life.

In these movements, Haydn shows not only his genius as a composer but also his ability to capture awe, joy, and gratitude in music that still resonates today.

Serene. Tender. Transcendent.

Ave verum corpus, K618

Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)

3 minutes

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Ave verum corpus is one of the most serene and moving pieces he ever composed. Written in June 1791, just a few months before his death, the motet is set to a short Latin text dating back to the 14th century. The words are a meditation on the body of Christ, reflecting on his sacrifice and offering a prayer for mercy. Despite its brevity – the work lasts only about three minutes – Ave verum corpus is filled with quiet beauty and deep spiritual expression.

Mozart composed the piece in the small town of Baden, near Vienna, for his friend Anton Stoll, the local choirmaster. It was intended for use in a church service on the Feast of Corpus Christi. Unlike his larger sacred works such as the Great Mass in C minor or the unfinished Requiem, this motet is simple in design. Scored for choir, strings, and organ, the music unfolds gently, without virtuosic display. Its simplicity is its strength: every note seems carefully chosen to serve the words and their meaning.

The music begins with a calm, flowing melody that seems to breathe naturally, as if it were part of the liturgy itself. The harmonies are warm and tender, creating an atmosphere of reverence. As the choir sings of Christ’s suffering and the hope of eternal life, the music never becomes dramatic or theatrical; instead, it remains inward, devotional, and contemplative.

Many listeners hear in Ave verum corpus a kind of farewell, written as Mozart’s own life was drawing to a close. Yet rather than darkness or despair, the motet radiates peace, consolation, and trust. Its quiet perfection has made it one of the most cherished sacred works in the choral repertoire, a reminder of Mozart’s extraordinary gift for expressing profound emotion with grace and simplicity.

Dramatic. Powerful. Devotional.

Elijah, Op 70

  1. Overture
  2. No 1: ‘Help, Lord!
  3. Recitative

Composed by Felix Mendelssohn (1809–1847)

10 minutes

Felix Mendelssohn’s Elijah is one of the great 19th-century oratorios, a work that combines dramatic storytelling with deeply expressive music. First performed in Birmingham, England, in 1846, the oratorio tells the story of the Old Testament prophet Elijah — a man of fiery faith who confronts false gods, calls down storms, and wrestles with doubt. Mendelssohn admired Handel and Bach, and Elijah pays tribute to their tradition, yet it also bears the hallmarks of Mendelssohn’s own Romantic style: vivid orchestral colors, lyrical melodies, and powerful choral writing.

The work begins with an Overture that sets the scene before a single word is sung. Far from being light or decorative, the overture is sombre and foreboding. Low strings and winds paint a picture of drought and desolation — a musical image of a land suffering without rain. The mood is tense, preparing us for Elijah’s entrance and the weight of his prophecy.

Immediately after, the chorus cries out in “No. 1: Help, Lord!” This movement establishes the sense of collective urgency that drives the whole oratorio. The choir pleads for relief from hunger and thirst, their cries echoing the people of Israel in despair. Mendelssohn’s writing here is dramatic and heartfelt, the voices rising and falling in waves of anguish, underscored by the orchestra’s dark harmonies.

The Recitative that follows introduces the prophet himself. Elijah calls down the drought as a judgment on Israel’s faithlessness, his stern words delivered with authority. Mendelssohn gives the solo bass voice a commanding presence, supported by stark chords in the orchestra. This moment marks the prophet’s first appearance and sets in motion the great struggles of faith, doubt, and redemption that unfold throughout the oratorio.

Together, these opening movements plunge listeners into a world of drama and intensity, showing how Mendelssohn transformed sacred text into living, emotionally gripping music.

Majestic. Jubilant. Reverent.

I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me

Composed by Sir Charles Hubart Hastings Parry (1848–1918) arranged by John Rutter (b. 1945)

6 minutes

Charles Hubert Hastings Parry’s I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me is one of the most celebrated works of the English choral tradition. Written in 1902 for the coronation of King Edward VII, it sets verses from Psalm 122, a text long associated with worship, joy, and the life of Jerusalem. Parry was a central figure in the late Victorian musical revival in Britain, admired for his ability to combine grandeur with heartfelt sincerity. This anthem has since become closely tied to royal and state occasions, performed at nearly every British coronation since Edward VII.

The piece begins with a majestic orchestral and organ introduction before the choir enters with the words “I was glad when they said unto me: we will go into the house of the Lord.” Parry’s setting is radiant and full of energy, immediately capturing the sense of anticipation and joy in gathering for worship. The music grows in richness as voices interweave, creating a glorious choral tapestry.

One of the distinctive features of the work is the use of “Vivats” – acclamations traditionally sung by the King’s Scholars of Westminster School. These jubilant shouts of “Vivat Rex” or “Vivat Regina” (“Long live the King/Queen”) add to the ceremonial splendour. Parry’s setting allows these cries to ring out above the choir and orchestra, heightening the sense of festivity.

Throughout the piece, Parry balances noble grandeur with passages of warmth and reflection, especially in the middle section where the music turns inward on the words “O pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” This contrast deepens the anthem’s emotional impact, moving from reverence to triumph.

I Was Glad has endured as a symbol of national celebration, but beyond its ceremonial associations, it remains a powerful and uplifting piece of sacred music that continues to inspire choirs and audiences alike.

Rhythmic. Fiery. Exuberant.

Il trovatore: Anvil Chorus

Composed by Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)

3 minutes

Giuseppe Verdi’s Il trovatore (The Troubadour), first performed in 1853, is one of his most dramatic and popular operas. Among its many highlights, none is more famous than the Anvil Chorus, which opens Act II. Officially titled “Vedi! le fosche notturne spoglie” (“See! the sombre veil of night”), this rousing number has become a favourite in the concert hall as well as on the operatic stage.

The chorus is sung by a band of gypsies at daybreak as they begin their morning work. With hammers striking real anvils on stage, Verdi creates a vivid sound world that captures the energy of labour and the vitality of the community. The men sing of the sun rising and life beginning anew, while the women join in with verses celebrating wine as a source of joy and renewal. The pounding of the anvils, the rhythmic drive of the orchestra, and the bold vocal lines combine to create music that is both earthy and exhilarating.

Verdi was a master of writing choruses that were more than just background. In his operas, the chorus often represents the spirit of a people, giving voice to collective emotions. In the Anvil Chorus, the gypsy community comes alive, full of colour, strength, and humanity. The sheer vitality of the music makes it one of the most memorable choruses in all opera.

Beyond the opera, the Anvil Chorus has taken on a life of its own. Its infectious rhythms and blazing orchestration have made it a favourite for concert performances, recordings, and even popular culture references. It is a perfect example of Verdi’s gift for writing music that is immediate, powerful, and unforgettable – a stirring burst of sound that never fails to thrill audiences.

Rhythmic. Fiery. Exuberant.

Nabucco: ‘Va, pensiero’

Composed by Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)

4 minutes

Giuseppe Verdi’s Nabucco premiered at La Scala in 1842 and propelled the young composer to fame. Its best-known moment is the chorus “Va, pensiero, sull’ali dorate” – often called the Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves. It appears in Act III as the Israelites, exiled in Babylon, remember their homeland and dream of freedom. The poetry by Temistocle Solera speaks of golden wings, gentle breezes and the ruined banks of the Jordan – images that turn collective sorrow into a tender, dignified song of hope.

Musically, “Va, pensiero” is disarmingly simple and perfectly shaped. The choir moves mostly together in rich, homophonic harmony, carried by a gentle, rocking accompaniment. The melody arches in long phrases that invite the singers – and the audience – to breathe as one. Verdi avoids theatrical fireworks here; instead, he writes with restraint and warmth, letting the natural rise and fall of the tune do the expressive work. Each return of the refrain deepens the feeling, building from hush to radiant fullness without ever losing its poise.

The chorus swiftly took on a life beyond the opera house. In 19th-century Italy it became a symbol of national longing during the Risorgimento – the movement for unification and independence. Audiences demanded encores, and at Verdi’s funeral in 1901 thousands lined the streets as “Va, pensiero” was sung in tribute. Although it was never Italy’s national anthem, it remains an unofficial hymn of solace and solidarity.

Today “Va, pensiero” continues to resonate wherever people confront exile, loss or displacement. Its power lies in how gently it speaks: not with anger, but with shared memory and quiet courage. In just a few minutes, Verdi gives us music that consoles, unites and lifts the spirit – a chorus that feels timeless in its humanity.

Enjoying the concert?

Rewatch all your favourite moments on TSO On Demand.

Streaming sixteen concerts from Federation Concert Hall, this is the full orchestra at its brilliant best.

Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra on stageTasmanian Symphony Orchestra on stage

Start Watching

Musicians

Simon Halsey

Conductor

Supported by Anonymous

Image

Image credit Laura Oja.

Simon Halsey is a trusted advisor on choral singing to orchestras and conductors worldwide. He was recently appointed Artistic Advisor and Choral Director of the Oslo Philharmonic, and holds positions as Principal Guest Conductor and Choral Ambassador of Orfeó Català, Chorus Director of City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Choruses, Principal Guest Conductor at WDR Rundfunkchor, Conductor Laureate of Rundfunkchor Berlin, and Choral Director Emeritus of London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

In 2025/26, Halsey will prepare the Prague Philharmonic Choir for performances of Dallapiccola’s Il Prigioniero with the Czech Philharmonic under the baton of Antonio Pappano, and the Chœur de Radio France in Britten’s War Requiem alongside the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France with Mirga Grazynte-Tyla. He also returns to lead several collaborative choral weeks with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, a long-term collaborator. Highlights from his titled positions this season include Ravel’s Daphnis et Chloé suite with the Oslo Philharmonic and Kazuki Yamada, Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius with the CBSO, also with Yamada, Mahler 3 with Joyce DiDonato, the Berlin Rundfunkchor, and Berlin Philharmonic under the direction of Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and performances of the Human Requiem with Orféo Català.

Halsey’s numerous awards include three Grammys for his recordings with the Rundfunkchor Berlin. He was made Commander of the British Empire in 2015, was awarded The Queen’s Medal for Music in 2014, and received the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 2011 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to choral music in Germany. His work is the subject of the documentary film Unsere Herzen – EiNn Klang (Our Hearts – One Sound), which was released in September 2022 .

Born in London, Simon Halsey sang in the choirs of New College, Oxford and King’s College, Cambridge, and studied conducting at the Royal College of Music in London .

Ethan Seto

Oboe

Image

Image credit: Pia Johnson.

Ethan is a passionate musician from Brisbane who studied under Eve Newsome at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University.

During his Bachelor of Music, Ethan received a comprehensive education that included a wide range of chamber music experiences and orchestral concerts, as well as concerto performances with the Queensland Youth Symphony and the Conservatorium’s Symphony Orchestra. He also had the opportunity to perform in masterclasses with Maurice Bourgue, Diana Doherty, Jacques Tys, Jean-Louis Capezzali, Nick Deutsch, Rossana Calvi, Huw Jones, and Emma Black. Ethan was the recipient of the Rudolph Pekarek Oboe Prize and was awarded the Griffith Award for Academic Excellence for three consecutive years.

Of the various modes of performance, Ethan most enjoys orchestral playing due to the immense energy that comes with being part of a larger ensemble. He has a fondness for music from the 19th and 20th centuries, which offer a balance of complexity and accessibility—music that engages the mind whilst also stirring the heart.

Outside of music, Ethan is a scientist with an interest in microbiology and human health, and he recently completed a Bachelor of Science at the University of Queensland. After a four-year hiatus from the oboe, Ethan has appreciated returning to the instrument and embracing the challenges it presents, which he believes are part of what makes it special.

Ethan is in first year at ANAM in 2025, studying with Jeffrey Crellin.

Ethan is supported by ANAM Syndicate donor Kerry Landman.

Olivia Kowalik

Violin

Supported by Anonymous

Olivia Kowalik. Image credit: Pia Johnson.

Image credit: Pia Johnson.

Olivia is currently in her second year of training at ANAM under the tutelage of Adam Chalabi.

Olivia completed a Bachelor of Music Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium where she studied with Janet Davies and was awarded the Dean’s List of Excellence in Academic Performance.

Olivia was born into a musical family and started learning violin with her father George Kowalik from the age of four. She always knew that music was the path that she wanted to take. Growing up in such a musical household, she aims to follow the footsteps of her older brothers who are in the Orava Quartet, one of Australia’s leading ensembles.

Olivia’s passion has grown, especially in orchestral playing. She was in the Sydney Youth Orchestra from 2018-2022 and was concertmaster in their flagship orchestra in 2022. She has held principal and associate positions in the Australian Youth Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra, and L’Estro Armonico String Orchestra, and has recently played with Sydney Philharmonic Orchestra and Ensemble Apex.

Olivia has performed as a guest soloist with Wollongong Steel City Strings after winning the Wollongong Eisteddfod concerto category. She was also scheduled to play as a guest soloist with Penrith Symphony Orchestra after winning the Sydney Conservatorium High School concerto competition in 2019, which unfortunately could not go ahead due to Covid-19.

Olivia’s recent interests in repertoire have included early 20th century music ranging from French impressionism to mid-century Russian music. She also enjoys listening to and playing works by Polish composers, such as Szymanowski and Lutosławski, as a tribute to her Polish heritage. Other than playing the violin, Olivia loves to paint and to draw.

Olivia is supported by ANAM Syndicate donors Jeanne McMullin, Jeanne and Frank Pleavin, Rosalind Price, Geoff and Margaret Stewart.

Olivia plays a Pressenda 1849 Violin 'Richard Pollett' on loan to ANAM from Janet Holmes à Court AC.

Theonie Wang

Violin

Supported by Anonymous

Image

Image credit: Pia Johnson.

Theonie Wang is known for her musical sensitivity and flare. Currently in her second year at ANAM studying with Adam Chalabi, Theonie is a recent graduate of the Queensland Conservatorium under Associate Professor Michele Walsh.

While she began her violin playing at three years old learning from her aunty, Fong Fong Watson, Theonie’s recent highlights include performing in masterclasses for Maxim Vengerov and former Concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic, Guy Braunstien, performing alongside the Australian String Quartet, and being a featured young artist with ‘Ensemble Q’. Theonie was the recipient of the ADFAS Yarra Prize for the Most Outstanding Program in an ANAM Recital in 2024.

Theonie is a long-standing member of the Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO) and was appointed Concertmaster for both the autumn and winter seasons of 2024. She was also accepted for both Adelaide and Sydney Symphony Fellowships.

In 2020, Theonie was awarded first prize for the Young Instrumentalists Prize, allowing her to perform as a soloist with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra at the age of 16. During her degree at the Queensland Conservatorium, Theonie was awarded first prize for the coveted Brisbane Club Award, both Judges and Audience Prize, and the Ena Williams Award for Post Graduate Study. She had the opportunity to perform as a soloist with the Queensland Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra in 2023 and was also invited to perform as a soloist with the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra at the Bendigo Chamber Music Festival in 2025.

In her spare time, Theonie enjoys a competitive and fun card game or board game and playing soccer out in the Carlton Gardens with her friends.

Theonie is supported by ANAM Syndicate donors Maureen and Alan Cant, Dorothy and Hans Carlborg, Lyndsey Hawkins, Michael Kent and Cristina Cappa Legora, Michael Schwartz and David Clouston.

Tonight’s orchestra

Violin

Ji Won Kim Concertmaster 

Yue-Hong Cha Associate Concertmaster 

Jennifer Owen Principal Second

Hayato Simpson Principal First

Kirsty Bremner

Miranda Carson

Tobias Chisnall

Frances Davies

Michael Johnston

Elinor Lea

Susanna Low

Phoebe Masel

Christopher Nicholas

Rohana O'Malley

💡 FIRST-TIMER TIP

Did you know our Concertmaster plays a violin hand-crafted by one of the finest and most important luthiers (a string-instrument maker) of the nineteenth century, Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume (1798–1875).

He crafted 3000+ instruments in his time and we’re very proud to have a violin made in 1845 on loan from two of our generous Tasmanian patrons.

Viola

Caleb Wright Principal

Katharine Brockman

Sandra Ionescu

Anna Larsen Roach

William Newbery

Cello

Martin Penicka Guest Principal

Ivan James

Nicholas McManus

Sophie Radke

Double Bass

Stuart Thomson Principal

Luca Arcaro

Matthew McGrath

Flute

Lily Bryant  Guest Principal

Lloyd Hudson  Principal Piccolo

Oboe

Rachel Bullen Guest Principal

Dinah Woods Principal Cor Anglais

Clarinet

Andrew Seymour Principal

Eloise Fisher Principal Bass Clarinet

Bassoon

Tahnee van Herk Principal

Melissa Woodroffe Principal Contrabassoon

Horn

Claudia Leggett Guest Principal First

Jules Evans Guest Principal Third

Roger Jackson

Hannes Kaukoranta

Trumpet

Fletcher Cox Principal

Mark Bain

Melanie Wilkinson

Trombone

David Robins Principal

Jackson Bankovic

Bass Trombone

James Littlewood Principal

Tuba

Rachel Kelly Principal

Timpani

Matthew Goddard Principal

Percussion

Gary Wain Principal

Stephen Marskell

Tracey Patten

Harp

Meriel Owen Guest Principal

Piano

Jennifer Marten-Smith Guest Principal

Celeste

Jennifer Marten-Smith Guest Principal

Saxophone

Jabra Latham Guest Principal

Benjamin Price Guest Principal

Organ

Christopher Wrench Guest Principal

TSO Chorus

Soprano

Emma Bunzli

Christine Coombe

Ruth Croser

Felicity Gifford

Lauren Hill

Kasia Kozlowska

Bernadette Large

Erin Murphy

Schuya Murray

Christine Ovens

Chantal Roddy

Lesley Wickham

Alto

Claire Blichfeldt

Carmelita Coen

Naomi Cooper

Elizabeth Eden

Wiebke Halsey

Mary Harwood

Mary McArthur

Caroline Miller

Sally Mollison

Rosemary Rayfuse

Georgie Stilwell

Gillian von Bertouch

Beth Warren

Andrea Wild

Tenor

Helen Chick

Phillip Clutterbuck

Michael Kregor

Bill MacDonald

Tony Marshall

Dianne O’Toole

David Pitt

James Powell-Davies

Bass

Geoffrey Attwater

John Ballard

Tim Begbie

Roy Classey

Peter Cretan

Jack Delaney

Liam Filby

Reg Marron

David Ovens

Tony Parker

Philip Ridyard

Tane Thomas

Voices en Masse 2025
Community Choir

Joanna Adamson

Karen Alexander

Simon Allston

Melissa Austwick

Janet Bagnall

Helen Bamford

Reg Barrett

Susan Barrett

Dorothy Baucza

Caroline Beasley

Rosina Beaumont

Rejane Belanger

Sue Bennett

John Berwick

Andrew Birt

Anne Birt

Judy Bishop

Malcolm Bishop

Robyn Blainey

Judith Blayden

Belinda Blekemore

Karen Blood

Helen Bonney

John Bonney

Wendy Bowler

Cindy Brazendale

Matthew Bretherton

Lynne Brothers

Tessa Bryan

Yvonne Buckley

Diana Burrage

Janet Butler

Margaret Bywater

Mary-Louise Callaghan

Betty Campbell

Christine Campbell

Hilary Cane

Gillian Cannell

Louise Carnell

Denise Chapman

Alastair Christie

Jennie Churchill

Daniel Comarmond

Marie Connett

Barbara Courtney

Angela Craze

Philip Crenigan

Beryl Cross

June Cunningham

Lisa Cutfield

Sabina Czarnojanczyk

Alison Darbyshire

Suzy Dempster

Virginia Dickason

Ange Dixon

Helen Douglas

Barbara Edwards

Jill Edwards

Marie Ellison

Lois Evans

Jackie Foale

Allison Foster

Sarah Freeman

Catherine Garde

Mary Garland

Therese Gilfedder

Erin Gleeson

Jandy Godfrey

Jean Gray

John Gray

Elizabeth Green

Kylie Grima

Pam Grimes

Gillian Groom

Karina Halys

Paul Hammond

Meredith Hams

Siobhan Hannigan

Sarah Hargrave

Jacky Hartnett

Kathryn Haskard

Elizabeth Haworth

John Hayton

Mary Heferen-Faulkner

Brittany Henderson

Dawn Hendrick

Kelly Hicks

Margaret Hiney

Ann Hobbs

Grace Honeyman

Stephanie Howe

Elizabeth Hughes

Sam Huynh

Liz Irving

Rufina Ismail

Petrina Jahnz

Melinda Jefferson

Katrina Jenns

Eraine Johnston

Anna Jones

Ann Kearon

Liz Keogh

Farida Khawaja

Rosemary Knight

Veronica Lambert

Jennifer Lambeth

Jordana Lory

June Lory

Annegret Ludwig

Alison Mahoney

Lorraine Mars

Justin Marshall

Jo Matthews

Summa McIntyre

Nicolette McKibben

Becky McLoughlin

Sindy Mills

David Monck

Linelle Morrison

Allan Morse

Carol Moss

Jill Mulcahy

Madelyn Munday

Jill Nash

Susan Newman

Elizabeth Oakley

Jeremy O'Reilly

Jill Parker

Margaret Parr

Jenny Platt

Agus Prajogo

Sandra Pullen

Kathryn Ragless

Lili Raintree

Betty Reeve

Siobhan Reid

Patricia Reimers

Bruce Rhind

Erin Riley

Maria Rolls

Rick Rolls

Aimee Rowell

Felicity Saunders

Mavis Sayer

Ludovic Schmidt

Cat Schofield

Gerry Scott

Diana Sharpe

Caitlin Sharpin

Janet Shaw

Mike Shegog

Ruth Shegog

Lyndel Short

Ian Smith

Paul Smith

David Stanton

Ann Stark

Hannah Sun

Cec Sutton

Sim Taylor

Jill Thiele

Fran Tilley

Stan Tilley

Daphne Toombs

Michael Tooth

Sue Tooth

Jo Topp

Anne Travers

Catherine Ubrihien

Frances Underwood

Malcolm Vernon

Heather Viney

Gudrun Wells

Marney Wickham

Bethany Wilkinson

Sharon Wilkinson

Michelle Williams

David Williamson

Elisabeth Wilson

Pamela Windsor

Gillian Wood

Tamara Wood

Christine Wright

*Correct at time of publishing

Return to Navigation →

Federation Concert Hall

Our Southern Home

Federation Concert Hall has been our home since 2001. It's distinctive curve, golden Tasmanian timber, contemporary design and deep red seats set the tone for the ultimate concert experience. 
 
In 2020, major acoustical enhancements were made to the hall, amplifying the venue's, and the TSO's, reputation as world-class. 

Photo credit: Fin Matson

💡 FIRST-TIMER TIP

A 'movement' is a longer piece of music broken up into bite-size pieces. It makes it easier to perform and provides contrast within the work. Find out more here.

Orchestra performing in Federation Concert Hall.

Getting THere & Accessibility

Everything you need to know about Federation Concert Hall.

Find Out More
Hadley's Orient Hotel

Make it an experience

Hotel Offers from Hadley's Orient Hotel

Nestled among other architectural masterpieces in Hobart's city centre, this heritage-listed hotel plays host to almost two centuries of stories, scandals and secrets. The floor boards whisper of the hotel’s rich and often tumultuous history.

Federation Concert Hall

💡 FIRST-TIMER TIP

What are acoustics and how do they affect my concert experience?

Acoustics are the science of sound, or the way a venue can deliver the thunderous feeling of strings and brass, or the ring of the triangle over all the other instruments.

Read more about the acoustics of the Hall here.

Karen Gomyo

Coming up

Karen Gomyo

Sparks will fly, featuring Karen Gomyo.

Delius The Walk to the Paradise Garden
Dvořák Violin Concerto in A minor, Op 53
Robert Schumann Symphony No 1 in B-flat, Op 38, ‘Spring’

Joyce DiDonato. Mezzo-soprano.

Coming up

Joyce DiDonato – Gala Concert

Featuring Joyce DiDonato, mezzo-soprano, eith Eivind Aadland, TSO Chief Conductor & Artistic Director.

J Strauss Die Fledermaus Overture
Berlioz Les Nuits d’été, Op. 7
BeethovenSymphony No. 7, Op. 92

Find Out More

Our supporters

Whether sponsoring a musician in the orchestra, or supporting our invaluable community programs, so much of what we do relies on you. We offer our deepest thanks to all our Partners, Patrons and Friends.

Support the TSO and connect with our orchestra beyond the concert hall.

Donate Now
5G Networks

Huon Pine Patrons

John Cauchi AM & Catherine Walker Chair Patrons

Anne & Don Challen AM Chair Patrons

Jane Drexler

Rob & Tricia Greenwell Chair Patrons

David & Catherine Hamilton Chair Patrons

Marie Heitz Chair Patron

In Memory of Ian Hicks Chair Patron

Belinda Kendall-White Chair Patron

Patricia Leary Chair Patron

Penny Le Couteur & Greg Dickson

Ang Madden Chair Patron

Emma & Dom McNamara

Mountain Air Foundation Chair Patron

R H O'Connor

Andrew Parker & Caroline Sharpen Chair Patrons

Chris & John Sandow Chair Patrons

Dr Peter Stanton Chair Patron

TasPlates

Dr Hilary Wallace Chair Patron

Deirdre & Trevor Wise

Anonymous (2)

 

TSO Concertmaster Emma McGrath plays an 1845 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume violin on loan from two of our generous Tasmanian patrons.

Sassafras Patrons

Cath Adams & Steve Craft Chair Patrons

Damian Bugg AM & Jenny Bugg

John & Marilyn Canterford

Dr Joanna de Burgh

Marc & Susan Duldig Chair Patrons

Richard & Harriett England

Emeritus Prof Andrew Glenn & Dr Odile Glenn Chair Patrons

Elizabeth Haworth & John Diment Chair Patrons

Suzanne Kirkham

John Langford

Diane Matthews

Anthony G McGee AM Chair Patron

Louise & Tim Mooney AM Chair Patrons

Bruce Neill & Penny Clive Chair Patrons

Bill Oakley OAM Chair Patron

Jan & Alan Rees Chair Patrons

Dr David & Mrs Glenys Rich Chair Patrons

Dr John & Mrs Barbara Roberts

James and Jacqueline Roberts-Thomson Chair Patrons

Rotary Satellite Club of Sandy Bay, Battery Point

Dr Di Stow Chair Patron

Michelle Warren

Anonymous (3)

Leatherwood Patrons

Andrew Bennett

Suzanne & Martin Betts

Peter Brooks

Elizabeth Bugg

Janet Carding

Helen Carrig

George & Jan Casimaty

Dr Josh & Wendy Cocker

Prof Mike Coffin

Beth Coombe

Stephanie Cooper

Simon Coultas

Vicki Cowles & Josef Neuschwanger

Nick & Janet Cretan

Emeritus Prof Stephen Crump

David Davey & Annick Ansselin

Allanah Dopson

Roger Fisher

TJ Foster

Giameos Constructions & Developments

Mr Tony Hagar

Amelia Hagger

Ms Keri Handley & Mr Frank Martin

Susan Hawick AM

Dr Donald Hempton

Peter & Jeanne Hepburn

Janet Holmes à Court AC

Dr David & Donna Humphries

Don & Christine Jeffrey

Prof Matthew Jose

Paavo Jumppanen

Veronica Keach

Judith Ker

Yury Kudryavtsev

Betty Kuhl

Harvey Lennon

David Lloyd

Marilla Lowe

Linda & Martin Luther

Dr Katherine Marsden

Maggie McKerracher

Margret Monks

Sarah Morrisby

Professor Robert Morris-Nunn

Alison Nadebaum

Jan Nicholas

Sindi O'Hara & Peter Pickett

Alison E Parsons

Catherine Prideaux

Helen Ross & Margaret Whiteside

Margaret Sallis

Deirdre Schoe

Dr Johannes Schonborn

Jenny Scott

Dick & Sue Shoobridge

Christopher Spiegel

Tony Stacey AM & Mrs Jeanette Stacey

Mr Ken Stanton

Janet Tomlinson

Rowland Turner

Frances Underwood

John Usher OAM

Hank & Elizabeth van Herk

Kim Waldock

Jacqui Walkden

Dr Michael Wilkinson

Geoff & Vicki Willis

Lindsay & Rae Young

Jane Zimmerman

Anonymous (7)

Blackwood Patrons

Simon Allston & Janeil Hall

Jacqui Blowfield

Kim Boyer

Dr Nicholas Brodie

Robert and Lisa Brodribb

Deborah Brook

Cameron Bryer

Jenny & Ian Burleigh

Victoria Burley

Roger Carrington

Dr Helen Chick

Heather & Christopher Chong

Gail Cork

Janet Crane

Amy Crosby

Jane Edmanson OAM

Ms Gail Friesen

Dr Brita Hansen & Frank Halley

Susie Harrison

Shirley Honeysett

Peter Hordern

Ross Kelly

Mary Ellen i m Kerensa

Richard & Julia Metcalf

Gisele O'Byrne AM

Tony Purdon

School for Seniors Rosny

John Sexton

Dr Tanya Stephens

Priscilla Travers

Jeanette Tremayne

Residents of Vaucluse Gardens

Judith Waldock

Jane Wilcox

Polly Woods

Dr Rosemary Yeoland

Anonymous (9)

Silver Wattle Patrons

Trevor & Barbara Abbott

Michael Alchin

Chris Andrews & Jill-Maree Geeves

May Backhouse

Dennis Bewsher

Dixie Brodribb

Elizabeth Chelkowska

Christine Coombe

G. D. Couninis

Tony & Kate Dell

Heather Ebbott

Sam Finlay

Sari Goddam

John Heathcote & Mary Feeley

Sharron Hewer

Ann Hopkins

Linda Jackson

Peter Jarvis & Ans van Heijster

Louise Klein

Sue Kremer

Ted Lefroy

Chris & Dot Lloyd-Bostock

William Lo

Rose & Thomas Marwick

Sandra Michael

Jane Monaghan

Dr Robyn Munro

Meriel Owen

Leone Paget

Shefali Pryor

Springhaven Lifestyle Village

Grant & Elizabeth Taylor

Diane & Neville Truskett

Judith and Rod Tudball

Julian Type

Dr Johanna Wadsley

Dr Roland Warner

Christopher Waterhouse

Anonymous (12)

Government Support
Australian Government
Creative Australia
Tasmanian Government
Premier Partners
AWM Electrical - Metal Manufactures Pty Limited
D&W - Metal Manufactures Pty Limited
City of Devonport
TasPlates.com
Wine Partner
Bangor Vineyard
Partners
ANAM Australian National Academy of Music
AWM Electrical - Metal Manufactures Pty Limited

Questions & Tech Support

Chat with one of our friendly staff at the TSO Box Office.

We value your feedback

Let us know your thoughts and ideas on the new digital programs here.