Stage to Screen - UNSW Orchestra and UNSW Wind Symphony
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https://www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/unsw-orchestra-wind-symphony-concert-stage-screen
Date Reviewed: 23/04/2026
BRAVO! BRAVO! Excellence heard in every note.
An atmosphere of anticipation and excitement filled the Sir John Clancy Auditorium as I had the pleasure of attending Stage to Screen, a performance by the UNSW Orchestra and UNSW Wind Symphony. I left thoroughly impressed by the professionalism, discipline, and musicality displayed throughout the program. What was presented was far more than a standard university concert; it was an evening that reflected serious dedication, refined preparation, and a genuine passion for performance.
From the opening work, the UNSW Orchestra established a polished and confident presence. The ensemble delivered a warm and cohesive sound, creating a strong musical foundation throughout the performance. Different sections contributed depth and balance with admirable precision, resulting in a well-rounded and polished overall sound. There was a clear sense of control across the group, with moments of power matched by refinement and subtlety. Particularly in the more technically demanding passages, the musicians performed with confidence, discipline, and finesse, reflecting the high standard of preparation behind the concert.
The UNSW Wind Symphony brought a contrasting yet equally compelling dimension to the evening. Their performance was vibrant, commanding, and full of presence. There was a strong sense of unity within the ensemble, and the musicians approached the repertoire with confidence and commitment. The performance carried energy and purpose throughout, while still maintaining musical discipline and balance.
One of the strongest aspects of the evening was the clear connection between conductor and performers. Direction was confident, transitions were seamless, and entries were consistently precise. More importantly, the musicians played with expression and intent, ensuring that each work communicated mood, tension, and emotion rather than simply technical execution. That ability to move beyond accuracy and into interpretation is what elevated the performance.
The programming itself was also thoughtfully curated. Presenting both orchestral and wind symphony repertoire created a welcome variety across the evening and highlighted the distinct qualities of each ensemble. Highlights of the repertoire included selections from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, excerpts from Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story, and the exciting Video Games Live by Ralph Ford O'Donnell, among many other enjoyable works. This structure kept the audience engaged and allowed each group to showcase its own strengths and artistic identity.
The selected repertoire clearly connected with the audience, with many of the featured works carrying a sense of familiarity, nostalgia, and excitement throughout the hall. Selections from Stage to Screen created an engaging atmosphere that appealed across generations and musical tastes. It was evident that parents, friends, guardians, members of the public, and academic personnel alike would have felt immensely proud witnessing the professionalism and talent on display. The Stage to Screen concept was delivered with confidence, creativity, and clear success.
Overall, Stage to Screen was a credit to UNSW Music Performance and to every musician involved. It showcased not only technical ability but commitment, discipline, and artistic pride. Evenings such as this are an important reminder of the value of live performance and the exceptional talent being developed within university music programs.
Reviewed By: Adrianna Janice