“Music should strike fire from the heart of man, and bring tears from the eyes of woman”. – Beethoven
So this week as been all about preparing for a series of concerts in Brisbane and Toowoomba, with the Queensland Pops Orchestra.
I always enjoyed orchestral music whether it be classical, contemporary or even tv and film scores. I’m also a cellist (a hobby that I embark on whenever I get little bit of time away from the craziness of everyday life). I can appreciate the intricacies that go into an orchestral piece. The addition of voices adds extra zest to scores, and they don’t always sing words. An ‘ah’ or ‘oo’ is just as effective in evoking memories, fantasies, emotions, etc.
This week, Toowoomba Choral Society Contemporary Choral were singing with 2 other choirs (1 from Brisbane and a Toowoomba school chapel choir). The theme was songs of British origin or theme. You can probably guess which ones…007, Lloyd Webber, Land of Hope and Glory, a few Celtics. Traditional, sacred, folk, film, theatre and tv, a brilliant mix of British songs.
Singing with a full orchestra is a different kind of high. Singing in musicals, which only half partial orchestras (most orchestras substitute instruments with keyboard FX), is an entirely different feeling of exhilaration. Its very hard to describe. The performance high after a musical show is almost like a hyperactivity. A professional orchestral performance is like an exhalation of stress, and a being of calm. I’m not ashamed to admit that after particular pieces, I’m crying at the end. I’m at peace (or I’m a big softy). Sounds very profound, doesn’t it?
This weekend, we were at the Queensland Performing Arts Complex (known as QPAC to the locals). We performed a matinee and evening concert. There were guest singers, dancers, special performances by the chapel choir, even a showcase for the larger ‘big persons’ choir. If this is the exhilaration I get when performing as a chorister, I can only imagine what it is like performing as a soloist (it would be a brilliant experience, I’m sure).
Next weekend, we have one more concert in Toowoomba Empire Theatre, so another chance to enjoy music at its best.
Thus is the second time that we’ve worked with the QLD Pops Orchestra. I hope we have more opportunities, as I love this experience.
Until next time…
Sarah Talbot 
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