Tasmanian-born tenor Gary Bennett isn’t ready to stop after more than 1500 Rieu concerts
Tasmanian-born tenor Gary Bennett knows a thing or two about selling out stadiums having performed more than 1500 concerts alongside the global classical sensation Andre Rieu.
Tasmania
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Launceston-born tenor Gary Bennett has returned to his home state of Tasmania for a brief break from an intense touring schedule with Dutch violinist, conductor, and global classical sensation André Rieu.
Mr Bennett has performed an impressive 1538 concerts alongside Mr Rieu over their 20-year partnership on tour.
Often referred to as the “King of the Waltz”, Mr Rieu has been a dominant figure in the global classical music scene for decades, performing with his Johann Strauss Orchestra.
Reflecting on his career, Mr Rieu has said, “My life is simply music; music is what we are always doing, and it never gets boring” — a sentiment that equally describes Mr Bennett’s last two decades on the road.
Speaking about his working relationship with Mr Rieu, Mr Bennett said the two musicians are “deeply in sync” and can anticipate each other’s movements on stage.
“He conducts during the concert, and he knows what he wants. If we have any requests, he either takes them on board or he doesn’t,” Mr Bennett said.
“But we’re always together, so our communication flows easily.”
Mr Bennett, who now lives in Germany and speaks the language fluently, said it’s been a pleasure to return to his native English while visiting Australia, a country he hasn’t been back to in years.
Now 70, Mr Bennett had an unconventional start to his operatic career, initially studying mathematics and physics at the University of Tasmania before moving to London to pursue his passion for music.
He has since performed in renowned productions such as La Bohème and Carmen, earning critical acclaim for his distinctive voice and commanding stage presence.
While many of his contemporaries have retired, Mr Bennett says he isn’t ready to stop just yet.
“I have no idea if or when I will retire. I’ll keep going as long as I feel fit,” he said.
“André is 75 now. It could end tomorrow, or it could go on for years. I don’t see myself continuing for another two decades, but why make predictions?”
Mr Rieu, one of the world’s best-selling classical artists, is credited with popularising classical music by blending operatic arias, romantic waltzes, and popular ballads in his concerts.
He has stated “my dream is to make the whole of classical music accessible for everyone”, a dream Mr Bennett shares, noting that while their performances are popular with younger people, many “can’t afford to come” as the cost of living bites.
When asked whether André Rieu might ever bring his concert to Tasmania, Mr Bennett said the state lacks a stadium large enough to accommodate them.
Originally published as Tasmanian-born tenor Gary Bennett isn’t ready to stop after more than 1500 Rieu concerts
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