A Celebration in Sound — musical generations unite to amplify 60 years of unwavering talent
The University of Newcastle’s Great Hall will come alive with the musical talents of local artists and generations of alumni this weekend, as the University further marks its 60th year with a powerful Celebration of Sound.
Celebrating six decades of the institution and the boundless contributions of its alumni, the curated concert on Sunday 23 November will bring together more than 90 alumni as well as current students, their families and the wider community for a night that honours the extraordinary breadth of talent that has flourished through the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music.
From orchestral and choral works to contemporary pop and jazz, the eclectic line up boasts some of the Conservatorium’s most notable graduates, as well as members of the first Bachelor of Music cohort, whose vision helped establish the Conservatorium’s strong foundation.
Dr Sue Carson, the University's Conservatorium Convenor and Artistic Co-Director of the event, said the concert marks a particularly meaningful milestone, bringing together students and colleagues in celebration.
“What makes this concert so special for me is the chance to share the stage with students I’ve taught throughout their Bachelor of Music degrees, I’m so proud of how far they’ve come,” Dr Carson said.
“Performing alongside my colleagues and seeing the community unite in celebration of music and great entertainment is incredibly rewarding.”
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, said the concert was a momentous way to reflect the University’s long-standing role as a facilitator of the arts.
“Our Conservatorium of Music has always been a place where creativity thrives. Where artists, students and teachers have been able to come together and share their love of music,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“For decades, it’s helped shape our city’s cultural life, as well as supported people to grow, connect and make their mark – both in Newcastle and across the world.
“This concert is about celebrating the people who have been part of that journey. Their passion, their stories and their contribution. As we mark 60 years and more than 200,000 alumni, it’s a timely reminder of the incredible talent that’s come through our doors, and an inspiring way to continue the legacy.”
Following the concert, the Conservatorium will host a special alumni reunion, inviting past Conservatorium students to reconnect and celebrate their shared history.
The impressive lineup includes:
- Decorated orchestral musician and alumnus, Mitchell Berick, who has performed with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Currently principal bass clarinet with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, he will return to perform alongside his father highlighting the Conservatorium’s intergenerational legacy.
- Additional artists include Dr Christopher Allan, Marissa Saroca, Amy Vee, Poppi Kent (Chain Daisy), Andrew Chubb, Super Tonics, Bob Corbett & the Roo Grass Band, and a special orchestra and choir comprising University music graduates.
- ARIA-nominated music teacher and alumnus, Dan Wilson, will lead artistic direction alongside Conservatorium Coordinator Dr Sue Carson. Currently head of Creative and Performing Arts at Lambton High School, Dan brings years of experience as a musical director and arranger.
In line with the University’s commitment to equity and access, all proceeds from this event will support the Shaping Futures scholarship fund, helping the next generation of students achieve their educational goals.
Tickets and Registration: https://events.humanitix.com/a-celebration-in-sound
To arrange an interview, please contact Lillias Foster on 0412 476 692.
For more information, contact the University of Newcastle media line on 0438 837 166 or email media@newcastle.edu.au
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