The Redland Sinfonia is dedicating its 2019 RPAC season to its founder Merv Genrich who died last year.
Conductor Dr Graeme Denniss said the dedication was a fitting tribute to the then shire chairman who in 1986 called a public meeting to bring together musicians, teachers, music shop owners and any others interested in forming an orchestra based in the Redlands.
“It was his vision and energy that helped create the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra, as it was known then, which is why he is known as the Father of the Orchestra,” Mr Denniss said.
Mr Denniss said it was Mr Genrich’s visio to provide a musical outlet for school leavers, music teachers, gifted amateurs and ex-professionals, without them having to leave the area, as well as providing quality live music for the local community.
In 2011, the CSO was renamed as the Redland Sinfonia in order to include the wider Redlands community and to avoid confusion with another Cleveland Symphony Orchestra in America.
The Sinfonia performs its major season of three concerts at RPAC, as well as giving additional performances at the Donald Simpson Centre and other community venues. These concerts provide a mix of classical, film, jazz, Broadway and pop music.
This year’s RPAC concerts are Royal Gala on March 23, The Teenage Rebellion on June 15, the Sound of Musicals on August 31.
“The continuing success of the orchestra is a testament to one man’s vision, and is part of his living legacy. And to celebrate our dedication to his memory this year, we have extended an invitation to all members of the Genrich family to attend any of our concerts free of charge,” Mr Denniss said.
The Redland Sinfonia rehearses each Tuesday evening at RPAC and new members are welcome. More on redlandsinfonia.org.au
