The two concerts showcased the sounds of 50 of the state’s best classical musicians in two fun and educational school performances at the Lighthouse Theatre.

The performances highlighted the skills of the ‘super symphony orchestra’ that comprised of individual instrumental families, while including humour and light entertainment to appeal to the 600 children who attended. 

It resonated with the primary school students who laughed and sang along to pop song Shotgun made famous by George Ezra which MSO’s young presenter and resident Richard Vaudrey performed on a ukulele, followed by the bursts of classical music by the orchestra.  

A highlight was when Vaudry took the reins from conductor and co-presenter Tianyi Lu to have a go at the top job.  He led the musicians with flailing arms, jumping, twisting and turning in the comedic display and the orchestra responded to his energy and enthusiasm, delighting the young audience. 

MSO senior manager of education and engagement Jennifer Lang said the orchestra performed for students from Warrnambool, Woodford, Camperdown and Terang as part of the MSO’s annual south-west visit.

It was the fourth and final stop on the orchestra’s regional tour which included school and public performances in Warrnambool and Hamilton this week. 

“The point of these performances is to introduce children to classical music of the orchestra, to inspire their love of music and also to support teachers in incorporating music in their classrooms,” Ms Lang said.  

“We’re really concerned about the fact that in 2015 music was taken out of the curriculum and bundled into the arts.

“It’s a real uphill battle for lots of teachers, who are incredibly passionate about that aspect of their students’ learning, and we do all we can to support them in making the most of this opportunity.”

She said the orchestra’s string quartet visited different schools six weeks ago for pre-tour workshops.

“We make sure, while it’s a wonderful opportunity to come to the concert, the children and teachers are fully prepared, as well as having a suite of digital resources available to them before and after the concert, to really embed that learning in the classroom.”

Ms Lang said it was a real joy for the orchestra’s staff and players to visit regional areas, where they had close relationships with their audiences who appreciated them touring. “It’s so lovely to be here.

“We have such a supportive relationship with the people of Warnambool and this wonderful venue, the Lighthouse Theatre, who have been so supportive of us returning here on an annual basis.”