Entertainment
26 September, 2025
Talented bassoonist adds local touch to orchestral show
THE Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) has given a magical evening of live orchestral music at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre this week.
Led by conductor Nathaniel Griffiths, a handpicked ensemble of 20 musicians performed a program blending classical favourites with new works from emerging Queensland composers.
“Cairns is a town that QSO has played many times in the past and we are always happy to come back to the Far North,” said QSO executive director Michael Sterzinger.
The program featured classical pieces such as Mozart’s ‘Eine kleine Nachtmusik’ and Gustav Holst’s ‘Jupiter’, alongside six new compositions written by high school students who participated in QSO workshops, including a piece by local talent Jonathan Platz from the Atherton Tablelands.
The regional tour is a cornerstone of QSO’s mission to make classical music accessible across Queensland.
Mr Sterzinger highlighted the orchestra’s engagement with communities and young musicians: “Wherever we go, people can be close to professional musicians, see where their own practice can take them and perform side by side with the orchestra. Engaging with young students is essential.”
Last year, the tour reached more than 11,000 people, including hundreds of school students. In Gladstone, for example, a free outdoor ‘Symphony Under the Stars’ concert attracted over 3000 attendees, while side-by-side performances allowed students from different schools to play alongside QSO musicians.
Mr Sterzinger also emphasised that concerts were designed for everyone, not just classical music enthusiasts.
Adding a local touch, bassoonist David Mitchell, who grew up in Cairns, performed in the concert, returning home to delight the audience.
This week’s performance offered locals a rare opportunity to enjoy an evening of both classical and contemporary Queensland compositions, as well as experience the magic of the orchestra live.
