The sound of music filled the Rochester Shire Hall on Sunday, May 5, as the Victorian State Concert Orchestra performed.
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President and concert master Loretta Frances Meagher said the afternoon was a real hit with the crowd.
“The audience really loved the music and, I mean, we always put on a good program, so it’s not a surprise to us, but it’s really lovely to see the standing ovation,” she said.
“We all love to see reactions like that to our music. We know how valuable it is to have affordable music, especially entertaining music. Everyone (in the orchestra) really enjoys it when the concert goes well.”
Despite what people might expect, Ms Frances Meagher said only a few in the orchestra would be able to pick a favourite piece.
“They’re all great works. It’s very hard to pick,” she said.
“I guess, though, we all like playing Pirates of the Caribbean because that’s considerable work for an orchestra. Then again, the arias are gorgeous, so it’s tough to pick one.”
The orchestra values playing in regional towns, as it understands the importance of accessible music.
“Music brings so much joy to people and the feedback we get makes us know it’s so worthwhile,” Ms Frances Meagher said.
“Someone even told me how emotional a lot of the people were after the concert. It was an older demographic and the concert moved them a lot. They even said it was one of the best concerts they’ve had there in that hall.
“That feedback is what music is all about — making people feel better.”
People can visit the Victorian State Concert Orchestra’s website for more information about the orchestra and where it is playing next.