Musicians welcome Western Sydney Philharmonic at Parramatta
The stirring and classical notes of a philharmonic orchestra are returning to western Sydney and fostering ‘ridiculously untapped talent’ that thrives ‘west of the Anzac Bridge’.
Parramatta
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It has been more than 100 years since western Sydney boasted a philharmonic orchestra but two musicians have been instrumental in ensuring the city changes its tune and harnesses the talents from aspiring artists.
Classically trained violinists and long-time friends Max Holzner and Kristian Winther have founded the Western Sydney Philharmonic orchestra (West Phil), starting with a “top-notch board and artistic committee” to cultivate talent in western Sydney.
Among the crop of talented students features Year 9 Our Lady of Mercy College student and violinist Jennifer Wang, The King’s School students Lawrence Wei and Harry Wang, who are skilled at the cello and violin respectively; and Arndell Anglican College’s India Culey who are part of the orchestra’s octet amplifying Parramatta.
Holzner has praised Jennifer Wang. “Her ability to learn notes is amazing but I take my hat off to her parents; I think they keep her grounded. Last time I checked she wanted to be a palaeontologist and a soloist.’’
The Baulkham Hills teen has practised with Holzner for several years and loves having an orchestra close to home.
“Most of the orchestras are in city or they’re not well known,’’ she said.
Though she is not obsessed with pursuing a professional music career, she does hope to perform “once or twice at some well-known venue” and showcase her flair with the violin.
“I love that it has such a large range and it’s so versatile when it comes to sound and it’s really a solo instrument,’’ she said.
“I also like the repertoire associated with the violin.’’
Harry Wang, who is not related to Jennifer but shares her passion for violin, has also welcomed West Phil, which “provides a lot of opportunities” that have so far evaded local musically-inclined youths.
The Strathfield 16 year old secured a music scholarship at the King’s in Year 7 and, like many students, travels to the Conservatorium of Music for a weekend program to hone his playing and composing skills.
Holzner, who is also the NSW Music Teachers’ Association chairman, grew up in Adelaide and Canberra but is no blow-in, having taught at the Elite Music Academy in Parramatta for 10 years when he witnessed the abundant talent.
“There is not just a demand but a need,’’ Holzner said, adding the Parramatta orchestra serves “a critical mass of people” the size of Hobart.
“The great thing about western Sydney is a ridiculously untapped pool of talent — it’s incredible.
“It’s just a shock and shame that it hasn’t been west until now.
“It’s the real deal and would make other areas of the city and the country jealous.’’
Four students and four tutors comprise the fledgling ensemble but Holzner is confident the number of students will grow to 60 this year courtesy of the “huge program” planned.
Professional performers from Sydney Symphony and the Australian Chamber orchestras have been employed to mentor students, who receive free guidance after auditioning.
Holzner says eliminating the usually expensive tuition fees is rare.
“We pretty much stand alone in the landscape of music education,’’ he said.
Parramatta Lord Mayor Donna Davis welcomed West Phil as a boost for the arts in the region.
“I think it goes to show that this is an opportunity for so many students who do learn to play classical instruments but often feel that they have no pathway,’’ she said.
“And at this point in time there is no tertiary institution west of the Anzac Bridge that actually offers any Bachelor of Music for these budding students.’’
West Phil will stage two concerts on June 13, when the orchestra’s string ensemble performs, and September 30 when the youth orchestra will stage a show. Venues are yet to be confirmed.
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