The Paradox of Promoting Western Sydney's Orchestral Talent: A Journey to the City for Concerts
As a professional dedicated to fostering orchestral training opportunities and promoting orchestral concerts in Western Sydney with West Phil, I find myself in a paradoxical situation. Despite the rich cultural tapestry and immense talent in Western Sydney, I am compelled to journey to the city to stage concerts. This scenario, while a logistical necessity, points to a larger issue - the absence of a venue that adequately represents and serves the diverse and vibrant community of Western Sydney.
One can’t necessarily begrudge plans underway for a 1350-1400 seat lyric theatre at the Riverside Theatre, which can “support Parramatta’s aspiration and trajectory to becoming a great global and cultural city…” and “sets a number of ambitious goals for its future, including providing flexible performance spaces, offering an expanded artistic program for a diverse community; and crafting an iconic and distinctive architectural landmark for Western Sydney.”
However, there remains a glaring gap. Western Sydney, home to over 2.5 million people and representing the geographical heart of a much larger “Sydney”, lacks an acoustically suitable and available venue for a concert grand piano to perform alongside a full-size symphony orchestra. The irony is palpable - the region pulsates with musical potential and audience enthusiasm but its talents are often showcased in venues far removed from their local roots.
The need is clear. We require a space not just for the local populace but for the entire city, a venue that is not beholden to the needs of slot machines (yes… I said it, and to be sure I’m not referring to the Riverside!) but in the interests of cultural and artistic enrichment. This need is not merely about physical space; it is about respecting and nurturing the artistic soul of Western Sydney. It's about creating a venue where local talents can perform in their community, for their community.
As we appreciate and look forward to the development of the Riverside, let us also advocate for a venue that meets the specific needs of orchestral performances. Might sound like an odd plea when institutions in Australia associated with “high art” attract the lion’s share of an already diminutive pool of arts funding. However, traditional Western forms of music and music-making are not only the preserve of the Sydney “East”. I find it hard to overlook the sight of so many music cases – violins, flutes, cellos, guitars etc. – being lugged by legions of children traipsing to and from their schools and music lessons just west of the “Latte Line” each weekday.
#WesternSydney #CulturalDevelopment #SymphonyOrchestra #MusicEducation Sydney Eisteddfod Music Teachers' Association of NSW Western Sydney University Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue
Soloist Alexander Gavrylyuk
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1moCannot wait to see this, so proud that it will be happening in our very own city 🙌