Emotional journey for orchestra fans

Beethoven's Fifth Symphony has been nicknamed the Symphony of Fate because of its awe-inspiring opening – fate knocking at the door – and its traversing of all human emotions.

Manukau residents can experience that emotional journey this month when the Manukau Symphony Orchestra presents the symphony in all its glory.

Some lucky Eastern Courier readers will share in the event because we have tickets to the concert to give away.

Maestro Uwe Grodd will conduct the full orchestra of more than 80 musicians at Manukau's Pacific Events Centre on March 27 and 28.

He says it will be a wonderful opportunity to hear familiar and lesser-known music of a similar, inspiring style.

The programme, entitled the Beethoven V Genesis Energy Autumn Concerts, opens with a commissioned work by Auckland composer David Hamilton – the world premiere of Flight, a short overture for orchestra.

Viennese pianist Christopher Hinterhuber performs Piano Concerto in E minor, Piccolo mondo antico (Little Ancient World). The work is by Italian composer Nino Rota, who won an Oscar for best original movie score for The Godfather.

The March 27 performance of Beethoven V starts at 7.30pm. On March 28 it starts at 2.30pm.

To enter the draw for the two double passes that the Eastern Courier is giving away, write your name, address and a daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and send it to Beethoven Competition, Eastern Courier, PO Box 76-400, Manukau City. It should reach us by noon on March 19. One entry per person please.

Tickets to the concert cost from $15 to $50. Booking is recommended. Phone Terry Spragg on 4451863 or email: manukausymphony@xtra.co.nz.

Tickets are also available from ticketdirect.co.nz or phone the Pacific Events Centre on 9767777 (booking fees may apply). There will be door sales from 5.30pm on the Saturday and 12.30pm on the Sunday.

- © Fairfax NZ News