Sydney Symphony Under the Stars
At this free event, you can enjoy a rousing evening of classical hits and new Australian masterworks while sitting under the summer stars.
Overview
Enjoy an enchanting summer evening with some of Australia's most talented musicians, including Egyptian-Australian composer and oud virtuoso Joseph Tawadros AM performing some of his most striking works. This free performance by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra culminates in a spectacular fireworks finale, so bring your loved ones and elevate your picnic experience at this all-ages concert in the Greater Sydney Parklands.
The program begins with Leonard Bernstein's rousing Candide Overture — the vibrant and energetic opening to the composer's operetta. This overture combines sweeping melodies, playful rhythms and dramatic flair. Its lively pace and bold brass fanfares set the stage for a night of world-class music-making.
Joseph Tawadros' Work is Love Made Visible is a stunning fusion of jazz, classical, and Middle Eastern influences, blending intricate rhythms and soulful improvisations. Exploring the profound connection between labour, love, and artistry, this work showcases Tawadros' virtuosity on the oud and his ability to create emotive, evocative soundscapes.
A mesmerising, dynamic composition that combines rich, eastern-inspired melodies with western jazz harmonies, Tawadros' Eye of the Beholder invites the listener into a deeply introspective and evolving musical dialogue. Tawadros' oud playing, paired with a colourful ensemble, creates a captivating journey through shifting textures and moods.
Permission to Evaporate is a playful piece exploring themes of transformation and release through a stunning blend of Middle Eastern melodies and modern jazz. Tawadros uses improvisation and intricate rhythms to evoke a sense of fluidity and change, reflecting the delicate balance between structure and freedom.
A playful and inventive fusion of bluegrass and Middle Eastern music, Bluegrass Nikriz combines the twang of American folk with the exotic scales and rhythms of the Eastern world. Tawadros' expert oud playing intertwines seamlessly with banjos and fiddles, creating a joyful and unique cross-cultural dialogue.
Constantinople is an evocative and atmospheric piece that brings together influences from the musical traditions of the East and West, creating a rich tapestry of sound. Tawadros' oud blends with lush orchestral textures, taking the listener on a journey through the historic crossroads of cultures.
A sophisticated and boundary-pushing composition, Point of Departure blends jazz, classical, and Middle Eastern elements to explore themes of change and innovation. Tawadros' oud leads the way, weaving intricate melodies with unexpected shifts in rhythm and harmony, reflecting the idea of starting anew.
Closing the concert, Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5 is a sweeping emotional journey, filled with passion, drama, and lyrical beauty. From its melancholy opening to the triumphant, rousing finale, the audience will enjoy a dazzling fireworks display at the symphony's dramatic climax.
Image: Peter Frankoswki
Top image: Jamie Williams
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