PROGRAM

BIZET - Petite Suite
RAVEL - Piano Concerto
MENDELSSOHN - Italian Symphony

Conductor - Christopher Hayles
Piano - Quang Hong Luu

Join the Woollahra Philharmonic Orchestra for REFLECTIONS, an evening where music becomes a mirror to life’s most precious moments and memories. This program, conducted by Christopher Hayles, is a journey through innocence, introspection, and cultural appreciation, crafted to resonate with each listener’s personal experiences. We begin with Bizet’s Petite Suite: a charming collection of miniatures that captures the carefree joy and wonder of childhood. Its playful themes and light-hearted orchestrations reflect a simpler time, drawing us into the innocence and joy of youth.

In the heart of the program, we welcome back the celebrated pianist Quang Hong Luu, who takes on Ravel’s Piano Concerto. Known for his expressive artistry, Quang navigates the concerto’s rich contrasts—between lively jazz-inspired passages and moments of haunting introspection—with exceptional finesse. This concerto embodies the duality of life, oscillating between exuberant joy and quiet reflection, echoing the emotional highs and lows we all encounter.

The concert concludes with Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, The Italian Symphony. Inspired by the composer’s travels through Italy, this symphony paints a radiant picture of sun-drenched landscapes and vibrant Italian culture. With its energetic melodies and lively rhythms, Mendelssohn’s work reflects the spirit of exploration and the thrill of new experiences. Join us for an unforgettable evening of REFLECTIONS, where each piece invites us to look within and connect with memories, dreams, and moments of beauty.

This concert will run for approximately 90 minutes including interval.