The APO Discovery concert brings the NZ music curriculum to life. In this annual concert, students can hear legendary works performed live by the full Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra in the Auckland Town Hall.
On Tuesday, 28 May, our Westlake Girls High School Year 9 Music Academy had the pleasure of attending this vibrant performance and experiencing some magical works performed.
The Discovery concert took students on a journey through programme music, which evokes imagery from events, stories, and scenes. The students heard works varying from Pirates of the Caribbean (Klaus Badelt), Star Wars Imperial March (John Williams) & Arrival of the Queen of Sheba (Handel).
A selection of student reviews on specific works and the performances are below.
“When I first heard the Star Wars theme, I was reminded of my childhood. It reminded me of when my auntie would take me and my brother out to see the new Star Wars movie. This brought me lots of nostalgia. ”
Star Wars Imperial March – Irene Fan
“In Pacific 231, I loved how the horn section was able to recreate the train noises by using techniques. I found it interesting how the rhythm of the song could continuously change but still feel organised and tidy. There were lots of different feels with the song, especially when the train took off.”
Pacific 231 – Chloe Liong
“Jupiter has a really sweet melody, and it has a pattern, so the melody comes up often. The strings and violins, in particular, play super high notes. The violas and cellos, as well as other basses, harmonise with the higher-pitched instruments (violin, flute, oboe, etc). I thought Jupiter had a moderate tempo; it wasn’t really that slow, but it wasn’t fast either.”
Jupiter – Afia Naushad
Overture from Orpheus & Eurydice is a fabulous piece that suffers dramatic mood swings. What I liked about Overture: Orfeoed Euridice (Orpheus and Eurydice) is the story-telling aspect of the piece. The music effectively conveys the emotional journey of Orpheus and Eurydice, capturing their love, loss, and eventual redemption. The contrasting dynamics and shifting harmonies beautifully reflect the complexities of the myth. Overall the piece is a fascinating way of depicting the journey of Orfeo ed Euridice.
Overture: Orfeo ed Euridice (Orpheus and Eurydice) – Rebekkah Nonu
