Congratulations Australia Ensemble

14 October 2004

A special gala performance will be held this weekend at UNSW, to mark the 25th anniversary of the Australia Ensemble and the start of its fruitful partnership with the University.

"I think it is important that a university support such endeavours as the Australia Ensemble. A university is not just a "degree shop", it is a place which should have an influence on a whole community," said one of the Ensemble's founders, Emeritus Professor Roger Covell, Director of the Music Performance Unit.

Since the Ensemble began in 1980, it has been widely regarded as the finest chamber group in the country.

It has lived up to its label as a truly national organization by touring around the country with Musica Viva, as well as attending other events. Its fame extends beyond Australia too, with tours to the UK, the Soviet Union, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, Poland, New Zealand, Japan, China, India, South America, South Korea, Vietnam and Thailand.

The final concert of the 2004 anniversary season on Saturday 16 October is also the 150th subscription concert presented in the Sir John Clancy Auditorium.

The seven-member group will play a range of pieces for the special event, including a newly commissioned score, which pays tribute to the Ensemble's core players and to the ideals of musical co-operation and interpretative sympathy they represent. One of Australia's most gifted composers, Ross Edwards, is responsible for the score.

There will also be a special anniversary program and a series of archival photographs in the foyer to mark the event.

Tickets for the gala concert on 16 October are on sale for $34 each, $25 for seniors and $17 concession.

For bookings and further information about the Australia Ensemble see the website.