Music enthusiasts are in for a treat as the Fremantle Chamber Orchestra (FCO), led by conductor John Keene, presents two back-to-back concerts, showcasing pieces from the Baroque and Classic periods at two of the Archdiocese of Perth’s places of worship.
The performances scheduled for 16 October at the Fremantle Basilica of St Patrick and 17 October at the Redemptorist Monastery, will pay homage to the work of Koželuch, Bach, and Mozart.
Featuring Emily Leung on violin and Michael Hodgkins on clarinet, Fremantle Chamber Orchestra Director Hans Hug said that pieces like Chaconne, Clarinet Concerto two and Divertimento K334 will be played at the 3pm shows.
“Bach’s Chaconne is the ultimate violin solo masterpiece featuring talented young violinist Emily Leung. Soloist in the Clarinet Concerto 2 by Koželuch is Michael Hodgkins. Mozart’s Divertimento K334 is rarely played but exemplifies everything we love about Mozart: his sweet charm, elegance and beauty,” Mr Hug said.
Mr Hug cited that FCO provides performance experience to young professional musicians, advanced University of Western Australia and Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts students, West Australian Symphony Orchestra casuals, and freelancers and aims to enrich a broad audience through classical music.
“We provide valuable performance practice for talented, young professional musicians. It is incorporated not-for-profit and all administrative and organisational work is voluntary,” Mr Hug said.
“Until 2020, the internationally renowned Dutch violinist Rudolf Koelman performed with FCO which is like master classes for FCO members (with exceptions that they do not need to travel overseas at a great expense) and were deeply enjoyed by listeners.
“Live recordings with Mr Koelman have resulted in two acclaimed albums that were broadcast on ABC Radio National Classic FM and many YouTube clips with over four million hits,” he cited.
Mr Hug added that the group are delighted to have another opportunity to perform at the Basilica of St Patrick and Redemptorist Monastery, quoting “both are stunning spaces and have great acoustics.”
“Because they are places of worship, they are ideal for the contemplative celebration of live music,” he said.
“In my opinion, music must be beautiful and/or touching and stirring and be played in a way that engages the musicians and listeners emotions.”
Tickets are available at the door (cash or card): Adults: $40, Concession $35, under 18 years: $20 OR via Ticketek, charges apply https://premier.ticketek.com.au/search/SearchResults.aspx?k=FCO or call Natalie at 0438 933 250