Perth Symphony Orchestra quartet ‘going rogue’ at Margaret River Heart next month

Classical music lovers are in for a rare treat, with two young locals getting their debut at the Margaret River Heart alongside Perth Symphony Orchestra’s match-ready quartet.

Perth’s premier string quartet has “gone rogue”, according to publicists, taking to the road across regional WA to bring a range of classical music to country audiences while also giving fans a chance to take in the tunes in a relaxed, behind-the-scenes atmosphere.

While the Wednesday, April 13 performance will give concert-goers a chance to engage with the quartet in a rehearsal-style performance, two workshops the day before will open the door to youngsters as well as local amateur musicians keen to have a jam with the professional performers.

The one-hour free Strings jam session is for attendees aged older than 12 with experience playing the violin, double bass, viola or cello.

Later that day, on April 12, the quartet will host a meet-and-greet for youngsters and their parents keen for an interactive workshop and question-and-answer session.

The performance rolls out as part of the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River-run Heart’s Homegrown@HEART concert series which is funded by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ Regional Arts and Cultural Investment “In the House” grant program designed to support the arts during COVID-19.

Heart general manager Nicky Hansen said part of the Shire’s commitment to supporting local creatives included giving young classical guitarist Charlie Lizzee and Year 11 pianist Ed Bancroft a chance to perform in the venue’s foyer prior to the April 13 performance.

“We’re delighted to be able to offer these paid performance opportunities to local emerging artists,” she said.

“It’s important for our talented locals to have opportunities like this – to hone their craft and gain experience performing in front of live audiences in a professional event environment.”

Lizzee performed at the Heart last year, but newcomer Bancroft told the Times he was looking forward to performing on the Heart’s grand piano for the first time.

Bancroft said he appreciated the opportunity as a Year 11 ATAR music student.

Perth Symphony Orchestra prides itself on innovative ways to bring classical music to people, including renditions of popular music from masters including Prince and Metallica.

The Heart is operating under a 50 per cent audience cap and tickets are expected to sell fast.

Visit margaretriverheart.com.au for more.