Role

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Ensemble

 

Southern Cross Soloists is a renowned classical music ensemble based in Brisbane, Australia. The group was founded in 1995 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for chamber music and a desire to bring their art to a wider audience. Since then, Southern Cross Soloists has become one of the most respected and sought-after ensembles in Australia, known for their virtuosic performances and innovative programming. The founding members of Southern Cross Soloists were Margaret Schindler (flute), Tania Frazer (oboe), Paul Dean (clarinet), Kevin Power (horn), and Patrick Nolan (bassoon). All of these musicians were accomplished performers in their own right, with extensive experience playing in orchestras and chamber groups both in Australia and abroad. They came together with the goal of creating a chamber music ensemble that would showcase the unique qualities of each instrument and explore the rich repertoire of classical music. From the beginning, Southern Cross Soloists was committed to excellence in performance and programming. They quickly established a reputation for their innovative and eclectic programming, which combined classic works from the chamber music canon with lesser-known pieces and contemporary compositions. They also sought to collaborate with other artists and art forms, incorporating dance, theater, and visual art into their performances. One of the highlights of Southern Cross Soloists' early years was their performance at the 1996 Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville. This was a major milestone for the group, as it gave them national exposure and helped to establish them as one of Australia's premier chamber ensembles. They continued to perform at the festival in subsequent years, building a loyal following and earning critical acclaim for their performances. In 1998, Southern Cross Soloists released their debut album, "Southern Cross Soloists Live." The album was recorded during a concert at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music and featured works by Mozart, Brahms, and Poulenc, among others. It was well-received by critics and helped to further establish the group's reputation as a top-tier chamber ensemble. Over the years, Southern Cross Soloists has continued to push the boundaries of chamber music performance and programming. They have collaborated with a wide range of artists and organizations, including the Queensland Ballet, the Australian String Quartet, and the Australian Chamber Orchestra. They have also commissioned numerous new works from Australian composers, helping to support and promote the country's vibrant classical music scene. One of the most notable performances in Southern Cross Soloists' history was their 2014 concert at the Sydney Opera House. The concert, titled "The Four Seasons: Vivaldi and Piazzolla," featured works by both composers and was accompanied by stunning visuals created by Australian artist Tim Gruchy. The concert was a critical and commercial success, earning rave reviews and selling out the iconic venue. In addition to their performances, Southern Cross Soloists has also been recognized for their contributions to the classical music world. They have won numerous awards and accolades, including the 2007 APRA Award for Excellence in Music Education and the 2015 Queensland Music Award for Excellence in Classical Music. They have also been nominated for several ARIA Awards, Australia's top music industry honors.

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