TSO suspends live performances but will continue to make music
In light of recommendations from the Australian Government Department of Health and Public Health Services Tasmania concerning the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra made the decision last Friday to suspend all public performances until further notice.
TSO Chief Executive Officer Caroline Sharpen said, ‘Whilst it is heartbreaking to cancel upcoming concerts – particularly A German Requiem this Saturday which is fully rehearsed and performance-ready, we accept the advice of Australia’s Chief Medical Officer. We are monitoring the situation and will be back as soon as it is safe for Tasmanian audiences. In the meantime, we will find new and creative ways to connect with the Tasmanian community to bring joy and enrichment into people’s lives, particularly in these uncertain times.’
At this stage, cancelled concerts are:
- THE LARK ASCENDING (20 March Hobart, 21 March Launceston)
- MY PET DRAGON (27 March, Hobart)
- ANCIENT AIRS AND DANCES (3 April, Hobart)
The TSO will review its response to the COVID-19 pandemic in early April. We will continue to work with the Department of Health to make the appropriate decision about performances beyond the above and make an announcement on this decision accordingly.
The TSO Box Office will be in touch with all those who hold tickets to concerts that fall within this period to discuss the options available to them. The TSO Box Office will remain open daily between 10am and 4pm and can be contacted on 1800 001 190.
The largest performing arts organisation in Tasmania, the TSO’s secured funding and reserves ensure the suspension of performance activity is not a material risk to its long-term future.
Despite a pause in concerts open to the public, the TSO will continue to rehearse and perform during the period and will upload content digitally to YouTube in a new series, the TSO ‘Daily Dose’ - a regular stream of 100% free TSO content including full concert performances, Q&A, behind the scenes footage and profiles of our musicians and team. All ticket buyers, supporters and friends – indeed, all Tasmanians – are invited to keep up to date with the orchestra’s activities at TSO Daily Dose. More information will be released shortly, including links to where you can view or listen.
Music demands an audience and all of us take pleasure and comfort from music. The TSO values its audience dearly and looks forward to maintaining and, indeed, building that audience online through TSO Daily Dose.
Sharpen says, ‘For now, Live it Online! is the orchestra’s slogan. On behalf of all musicians, choristers and staff we thank you for your understanding and can’t wait to welcome you back to a concert soon.’
The TSO
