Leading New Zealand tenor Simon O'Neill makes a quick dash across the Tasman to perform in the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra's annual Summer Matinee concert on Saturday 14 February.
Simon, who is currently rehearsing the role of Sergei for Opera Australia's production of Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, will feature alongside popular mezzo-soprano Helen Medlyn in the concert held in Auckland's historic Government House gardens.Leading New Zealand tenor Simon O'Neill makes a quick dash across the Tasman to perform in the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra's annual Summer Matinee concert on Saturday 14 February.
Simon, who is currently rehearsing the role of Sergei for Opera Australia's production of Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, will feature alongside popular mezzo-soprano Helen Medlyn in the concert held in Auckland's historic Government House gardens."I'm really looking forward to singing at this concert," Simon says, "Helen Medlyn is a master of performance in both popular and operatic styles - I have learnt much from her."
Simon adds that with the concert falling on Valentine's Day there is a certain romantic theme. "Being on Valentine's day I couldn't go past the opportunity to sing some of my favorite Mario Lanza tunes.
The programme also features music by Rossini, J Strauss, Puccini, Tchaikovsky, Saint-Saëns and Lehár.
Known as "Auckland's most stylish picnic", the APO's annual Summer Matinee has been a feature of the Auckland summer calendar since 1980 and the 2009 event marks a return to the Government House grounds following a five-year break while Government House underwent renovations.
APO Chief Executive Barbara Glaser sees the homecoming as a rejuvenation of a longstanding summer tradition between the orchestra and the city it serves. "The orchestra's performances at Government House have spanned more than two decades, and there is a sense of history to the occasion.
"The Summer Matinee has become a very special part of our annual season - the orchestra loves performing outdoors in the gardens and it's an event which has become a real highlight of Auckland in summer."
The Summer Matinee concert is the APO's main fundraiser for the year with musicians and staff contributing their time on the day. Proceeds raised from the concert go toward the orchestra's extensive education programme.
A major raffle is also held on the day with prizes including a trip for two to see the Sydney Symphony Orchestra perform at Sydney Opera House, a luxury weekend stay at Orongo Bay Homestead in the Bay of Islands, or a hamper of food, wine and music.
This year, rather than providing food hampers, audience members are encourage to create their own picnics - a change which will be welcomed by many foodies who like to add their personal touch to their refreshments for the afternoon.
The APO's Summer Matinee is at Government House, Mt Eden, Auckland on Saturday 14 February from 2pm. Tickets (adults $60, children $25) are available from the APO Ticket Office by phoning 09) 623 1052 or online at www.apo.co.nz.
11/02/09