COVID has struck again. This long-planned concert was to have been led by Simone Young but with current lockdowns and border closures, she was unable to get to Adelaide. Thankfully local and former Chief Conductor (1987–1991), Nicholas Braithwaite was well-versed in this material and gallantly filled the breach – and this he did with ease. The only thing missing from the initial program was a new fanfare by the Tasmanian composer Mary Finsterer. Commissioned by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra as part of its 50 Fanfares project, the SSO retains the right to premiere the work. As the current Sydney lockdown prevented the premiere, Adelaide audiences must wait a little longer to hear it themselves.

Adelaide Symphony Orchestra on stage at Adelaide Town Hall

The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra on stage at Adelaide Town Hall. Image supplied.

Mention should be made of the short musical acknowledgement of local country and its Kaurna people which opened the concert. Jamie Goldsmith and Jack Buckskin’s Pudninthi Padninthi II – Wadna