Noosa Orchestra invites audiences on a thrilling musical journey across Europe with its winter concert series: Mission Impossible to Hungary.
Led by conductor Antoni Bonetti, the programme promises an exhilarating blend of classical gems, folk-inspired dances and a true rarity: a concerto for two bassoons.
The centrepiece of the concert is Johann Baptist Vaňhal’s Concerto for Two Bassoons in F Major, a captivating work which offers a rare spotlight on this versatile and often underestimated instrument.
Performed by acclaimed soloists Neil Heymink and Sarah Wagner, this 20-minute concerto showcases the bassoon’s lyrical charm, nimble agility and expressive depth.
“In the 18th Century the bassoon appeared relatively rarely as a solo instrument, which makes Vaňhal’s decision to compose a concerto even more interesting, especially as the main role is given to two bassoons,” Heymink said.
“The finale of the concerto, traditionally written in a mobile tempo, affords the soloists the opportunity to compete in terms of virtuoso skill not just with the orchestra but with each other.”
With its rich, reedy tone and a range that spans over three octaves, the bassoon is one of the orchestra’s most fascinating instruments—able to conjure both melancholy and mischief.
The programme will also feature the contrabassoon, the bassoon’s larger sibling, capable of producing the lowest notes in the orchestra—guaranteed to be felt as much as heard.
Talented student student bassoonists from Sunshine Beach State High School and across the Sunshine Coast will also perform alongside adult musicians in a unique ensemble. Their repertoire includes the elegant Le Phénix by Michel Corrette and the delightfully cheeky PIGS by British composer Alan Ridout.
It’s a rare opportunity to see so many bassoons on one stage.
The folk-inspired works are rooted in the rhythms and colours of Hungarian and Romani musical traditions—each reimagined through the unique voice of the composer. Expect fiery tempos, foot-stomping dances and emotional intensity.
Event details:
What: Noosa Orchestra & Ensembles presents: Mission Impossible to Hungary
When: Saturday August 30 (Cooroy) & Sunday August 31 (Noosaville). Start time: 2.30pm.
Where: Cooroy Memorial Hall (Cooroy) | Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Hall (Noosaville)
Tickets: from trybooking.com Adults $40 | Students (18+) $15 | School age $10 or $45 at the door (cash only).
For more information visit: noosaorchestra.com.au
