Country rock meets symphonic orchestra in unlikely collaboration

The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has revealed its 2024 season program, headlined by a blockbuster collaboration that we never knew we needed. See the exclusive video for a taste of what’s in store.

One of Tasmania’s most successful country duos will share the stage with a full symphonic orchestra in an unexpected combination of country rock and harmonic strings.

The Wolfe Brothers will perform with a team of world-class musicians as part of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra’s (TSO) 2024 Concert season.

The Wolfe Brothers said the performance will be something all Tasmanians can enjoy and a display of their life story.

“If people know a bit about our band, our story, our music, it’s very uniquely Tasmanian,” Tom Wolfe said.

The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, The Wolfe Brothers Nick Wolfe, Tom Wolfe and principal second violin Lucy Carrig- Jones. Picture: Chris Kidd

“We’re fourth generation farmers here … and to team up with the TSO and bring a show that takes our songs, our stories that we’ve written inspired by the state to this incredible new sound and high, for us is a real career highlight.”

TSO Concertmaster Emma McGrath said the new season program is not just about classical music.

“We do all sorts of things, there’s so much for everyone in this new 2024 season,” Ms McGrath said.

“If you want to listen to music in a pub, or in a brewery, in a beautiful little chamber music venue up north, or in the Big Federation Concert Hall, or at Wrest Point, we’re covering all the venues and lots and lots of different types of music.”

The program will also feature guitar and violin concertos and a performance by Jazz vocalist Olivia Chindamo.

Arts Minister Madeleine Ogilvie said the government was putting effort into the grassroots support so needed for organisations such as the TSO to flourish.

“I want our young players, whether they’re from the Huon or wherever they are in Tasmania, in all regional areas to know, there is an opportunity for a career in the arts and for a career in music,” Ms Ogilvie said.

See the full 2024 program here.

Originally published as Country rock meets symphonic orchestra in unlikely collaboration