New World with the National Capital Orchestra

FORTY years of performing major symphonic works produces more than just music, it creates a community, and the National Capital Orchestra has built a wealth of musical talent in Canberra. CITY NEWS

Join the National Capital Orchestra for an evocative afternoon of sound and storytelling at the magnificent Snow Concert Hall, under the masterful direction of Music Director Louis Sharpe.

The program opens with the World Premiere of Riparian, NCO's 2026 Artist-In-Focus composer Ben Hoadley. Inspired by the dynamic ecosystems of riverbanks, the piece weaves natural imagery and flowing textures into a vibrant orchestral landscape.

Next, the spotlight turns to Lake Ice: (Missed Tales No. 1) by celebrated Australian composer Mary Finsterer—a compelling concerto for Double Bass and orchestra. Guest soloist Kyle Ramsay-Daniel brings extraordinary nuance and power to this haunting and atmospheric work, exploring the stillness and mystery beneath frozen surfaces.

The concert culminates with Antonín Dvořák’s beloved Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World.” Infused with lyrical beauty and spirited energy, this symphony speaks to longing, discovery, and the essence of place—echoes that resonate just as deeply today.

Don’t miss this journey through Australian innovation and classical grandeur, all brought to life in one unforgettable performance.

PROGRAMME

NEW WORLD

National Capital Orchestra

Louis Sharpe, Music Director

Ben Hoadley Riparian - World Premiere

Mary Finsterer Lake Ice : (Missed Tales No. 1)
Kyle Ramsay-Daniel, Double Bass
INTERVAL

Antonin Dvořák. Symphony No. 9 in E minor "From the New World"

NATIONAL CAPITAL ORCHESTRA

In 2023, the National Capital Orchestra proudly marked its 40th anniversary, tracing its roots back to its founding as the Canberra Pops Orchestra. Since those early days, the NCO has become a cornerstone of Canberra’s vibrant musical landscape, welcoming musicians from all walks of life—including alumni and current members of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra and Canberra Youth Orchestra.

As one of only two full symphony orchestras in Canberra, the NCO is passionate about bringing grand orchestral experiences to local audiences. Each season features a rich and varied program—from iconic movie scores and Australian premieres to beloved masterpieces of the symphonic repertoire—offering something for every music lover.

We’re excited to continue our partnership with the Snow Concert Hall for our dynamic 2025 season. The NCO is committed to nurturing talent, providing opportunities for gifted musicians to shine both as soloists and ensemble members. Consult our website

www.nco.org.au for information on the orchestra including our programs and membership details.

LOUIS SHARPE

From the conductor’s podium to the cricket pitch, the kitchen and beyond, Louis Sharpe is a man of many passions. A proud Coombs resident, devoted husband to his violist wife Alina, and loving father to their son Felix (and Proky the cat), Louis has been shaping Canberra’s musical landscape for over six years.

Before making the nation’s capital his home, Louis was the Music Director of the Eastern Sydney Chamber Orchestra, balancing his time between performing with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra and serving as Assistant Conductor to the renowned Dr Nicholas Milton AM.

His journey into conducting began in high school in Melbourne, where he studied with some of Australia’s finest educators. Not content with just learning, Louis founded the Hopkins Sinfonia—creating a training ground for young conductors to develop their craft with a live ensemble.

Beyond Canberra, Louis is Assistant Conductor to the Australian World Orchestra, working alongside Artistic Director Alexander Briger AO and collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Sir Simon Rattle and Maestro Zubin Mehta.

At the heart of it all is the National Capital Orchestra—his musical family. Louis is thrilled to lead NCO in its exciting 2025 Season, Harmony, with inspiring concerts and bold

programming. With the stunning Snow Concert Hall as the orchestra’s home base, he looks forward to pushing boundaries, reviving beloved classics, and sharing the stage with extraordinary talent from near and far.

VISIT NATIONAL CAPITAL ORCHESTRA for MORE INFORMATION including PROGRAMS & MEMBERSHIP DETAILS

VISIT SNOWCONCERTHALL.COM for VENUE DETAILS and MORE INFORMATION

VISIT ACCESSING THE SNOW CONCERT HALL for information on PARKING and ACCESS.