Fremantle Chamber Orchestra’s concert hits a high note

The Fremantle Chamber Orchestra gave Geraldton a night to remember, with a stunning performance at St Francis Xavier Cathedral on Friday.

The orchestra took listeners on a trip through the history of classical music, from Bach to Tchaikovsky, to the modern era with film composer Ennio Morricone.

One highlight was a rendition of Johan Svendsen’s Romance, Op. 26, which left many teary eyes in the crowd.

The orchestra performed last year at the 2021 Shore Leave festival and decided to return after such a warm reception.

While bringing highly sought-after instrumentalists from Perth to Geraldton was an expensive challenge, it was absolutely worth it, according the orchestra’s director, Hans Hug.

“I have been performing for decades, and I think the connection between us the musicians and the audience was tangible, they really got involved,” Mr Hug said.

“For us it was a really special occasion, everything just came together.”

Playing at St Francis Xavier Cathedral in particular made for a special night.

“When you have a beautiful space that resonates, and a beautiful audience that you can feel is in touch with what you are trying to express, then that gives you an incredible boost as a musician,” Mr Hug said.

Mr Hug said he hoped the orchestra would be able to return to Geraldton.

“We would love to make this a yearly event, but of course we can’t do this without funding and a good crowd,” he said.

“We really hope the City of Geraldton can give its support again in the future.”