Entertainment
2 August, 2025
One-off show for Far North
CAIRNS will strike a chord with classical music lovers this September when a 20-piece chamber ensemble from the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performs a ‘Classics in Cairns’ concert at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.
Held for one night only on Wednesday, September 24 at 7.30pm, the event forms part of QSO’s expansive 2025 regional tour but stands out as a bespoke performance for the Far North.
While other centres will welcome the full 60-piece orchestra, Cairns will host an intimate concert blending timeless repertoire with fresh compositions by emerging Australian talent.
Adding depth to the visit, local secondary school students will have a rare opportunity to participate in QSO’s ‘Compose’ workshop, a unique experience not offered in other regional stops.
Designed to uncover and nurture budding composers, the session will be led by QSO cellist and composer Craig Allister Young, who has more than 30 years’ experience and serves as lead mentor in the QSO Compose program.
Students will be guided through techniques in orchestration, harmonisation and writing for professional ensembles, with practical insights into the workings of different orchestral sections such as brass, strings, woodwind and percussion.
QSO chief executive officer Michael Sterzinger said the orchestra’s touring program aimed to enrich communities across Queensland.
“QSO is committed to, not only giving thousands of regional and remote Queenslanders a chance to hear live orchestral music, but to enriching the communities in which we perform,” he said. “We are invested in nurturing an understanding and appreciation of music in children and sparking the imagination of Queensland’s emerging young talent.”
Tickets are on sale now at https://bit.ly/3UCQ7tM
