JUDITH Wright, one of Australia’s most prominent poets will be celebrated in an evening of verse and music on Saturday 27 July at 7.30 pm in Lazenby Hall, at the University of New England.
The Moving Image, presented by Opera North West will feature settings of the Wright poems by Australian composers Margaret Sutherland, Ross Edwards, Richard Mills, Shauna Beesley, Gordon Kerry and locally based musician, Nick Negerevich.
In an evening of verse and song, the concert The Moving Image showcases many of the poet’s major works though recitation by verse speakers, Chris and Judith Ross-Smith and performances by acclaimed mezzo soprano, Elizabeth Campbell, soprano Peta Blyth and pianist, David Miller.
“Elizabeth had recorded many of the poems and the delivery of the text is exemplary,” organiser, Peta Blyth said.
“The recording demonstrates great depth of understanding of the works.”
Also featured will be a string trio with David and Sarah Matthews and Margaret Butcher present Margaret Sutherland’s The World and the Child with soprano, Peta Blyth.
Musician and composer, Nick Negerevich presents the five Bird Songs with an interesting combination of recitation and instrumental works.
Two of Judith Wright’ s direct descendants, young violinist, Jessica Wright and saxophonist, Harry Wright will be the soloists for these pieces.
“Like many of us, I grew up with the Wright poetry and the works have left a strong impression,” Nick said.
Born in Armidale, Judith Wright spent her childhood in the New England area before moving to Queensland. Themes of landscape, the environment and the plight of Indigenous people are recurrent themes in her works.
“Almost all the performers have a strong connection with the New England area which adds a level of authenticity to the concert,” Ms Blyth said.
The evening concludes with the premiere performance of Ubi composed by Sydney based composer, Colin Bright.
“Featuring Ben Lange as didgeridoo soloist and a 12-piece ensemble, the work explores a sense of place and awareness, which I believe, ties in very well with the whole evening,” Ms Blyth said.
Opera North West, presenters of Opera in the Paddock gratefully acknowledges the support of Arts NSW, Principal Sponsor Roberts & Morrow and the University of New England through the School of Arts and Faculty of Arts And Sciences.
Tickets: Adults $50 (including a glass of champagne or juice and canapés) Students $30 $25 (concert only)
For Bookings: www.operainthepaddock.com.au or phone (02) 6724 8561
