A Sunshine Coast Orchestra separated by the pandemic has been reunited thanks to a $10,000 grant.
Led by award-winning guitarist and composer Andrew Veivers, the Sunshine Coast Guitar Orchestra will bring together 28 musicians from across the region after a three-year hiatus to perform a free community concert on June 11 at The MET in the Maroochydore CBD.
“We’re excited to be back together and performing for live audiences again after such a long break,” Mr Veivers said.
The SCGO is one of three recipients of the inaugural $30,000 Place Activation Grants Program, an initiative delivered in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, Walker Corporation and SunCentral Maroochydore Pty Ltd.
Related story: New CBD to be activated with art and culture
“It has been a tough few years for our industry and grants like this are essential for reviving local arts and cultural activities to the benefit of both the community and its musicians,” Mr Veivers said.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson said the grants were breathing life and vibrancy into the new CBD.
“Live performances like those by the Sunshine Coast Guitar Orchestra are essential for activating the new city centre and strengthening the community’s connection to public spaces,” Cr Jamieson said.
Walker Corporation director, development and major projects, Peter Saba was thrilled the grant had reunited the musicians.
“The band is back together again and we are excited to see 28 stars of the Sunshine Coast Guitar Orchestra tuning up to play their first concert in three years, and we are glad we can make it free for the Sunshine Coast community,” Mr Saba said.
SCGO is the third and final project to be delivered under the Place Activation Grants Program, following the City Bloom projection art installation, which launched in early March, and the giant United Journey mural by First Nations artist Jandamarra Cadd in April.
SunCentral CEO Amanda Yeates said the program was built on a shared vision with Walker Corporation and council to deliver high-quality placemaking activations for the new city centre.
“Live performances enhance community connection to the new Maroochydore City Centre by creating a sense of well-being and camaraderie amongst local musicians while providing an opportunity for families to enjoy a day out in the heart of the city,” Ms Yeates said.
The repertoire for the SCGO is chosen by the members collaboratively, and rehearsed and mastered by players of all skill levels coming together.
The free community event is from 2pm on June 11. To learn more about the event and to secure your tickets, click here.
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