Resonance String Orchestra presents Epic

November 27th saw Resonance String Orchestra's inaugural Mount Alexander Shire performance, led by Artistic Patron Zoe Knighton (of the acclaimed Flinders Quartet, Knighton/Farid duet and more). In an exciting and bold move, Resonance, which has been flourishing in the Macedon Ranges since 2009, launched its Castlemaine chapter in early 2021. The result is a 50-piece string orchestra that plays music with heart and might. 

 This dynamic and emotionally charged concert program saw performances by the Woodend and Castlemaine branches, as well as repertoire by the orchestra as a whole, including Vaughan Williams' magnificent and moving Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis. 

Excerpt from Vaughan Williams on Facebook

 Resonance has embraced the challenge of presenting works by 20th century composers written in the idiom of earlier eras: Epic linked themes of timeless wisdom and beauty with new emergence: Warlock's Capriol Suite and excerpts from Respighi's Ancient Airs and Dances sat alongside Melbourne-based Dindy Vaughan's "Bird Suite", which invites us to connect to our local landscapes, allowing us to delight in the call of the currawong and evoking images of a majestic raven, flying unhurriedly from tree to tree. 

 Other musical treats on the program included works by Golterman and Saint-Saens. 

 Rehearsed over Zoom, in face-to-face rehearsals between lockdowns and in combined workshops across the two shires, Epic was a testament to the energy, hope and passion of Resonance and its members. 

Comments on Epic:

"I want to say what a tremendous success the concert was. The Resonance
String Orchestra was so impressive, The music chosen varied,
interesting and moving.The feedback I heard from the audience was all positive. They were
impressed by the musicianship, loved the sense of community, and the
fact that there were all ages participating..."

Cello Vivo member

Wonderful concert, unexpected overwhelming joy, and huge admiration for all the performers. Totally thrilled and inspired, thank you. Zoe your performance of 'Reclaiming the Spirit' was stunning - from your first notes the audience was held in rapt gaze, mid breath, vibrating to the core. A performance I will treasure remembering. Arabella, audience member

Huge thanks and congratulations to everyone in the concert, the organisers and you Zoe - it was great to be ‘in the house’ among what felt like a Grand Final crowd - except they were all supporting the same team" - audience member

"Dear Resonance, What a stunning concert. I hope you all feel immensely proud of your brilliant and moving performance. It was so wonderful and full enjoyable and I really feel you wowed Castlemaine! Congratulations!!!" - past member