Brisbane Airport Celebrates 2009 with Orchestra

12/02/2009

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) today announced it will sponsor Queensland’s largest and most active community orchestra, Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO), in celebration of Queensland’s 150th birthday.

BAC Executive Manager Corporate Relations, Jim Carden, said BAC has a strong belief in supporting vibrant local arts and culture that helped position Brisbane on the world stage.

“International cities are defined by the quality and diversity of their culture. With 18.5 million passengers flying through Brisbane Airport last year alone, BAC recognises the importance of building a city rich with culture to attract visitors to the region,” Mr Carden said.

“The Celebrate 2009 season is going to be a great contribution to Queensland’s culture.”

Mr Carden acknowledged the hard work of the Orchestra, run entirely by its members, who come together in their own time, to greatly contribute to the performing arts in Queensland.

“Brisbane Airport is pleased be able to back an organisation made up of everyday Queenslanders whose internationally acclaimed performances benefit their own community and ours,” he said.

BPO Marketing Manager, Melanie Doheny, said BPO’s success is due to their exceptionally talented membership who volunteer their time, and the support of dedicated sponsors such as BAC.

“We appreciate the support of a community focussed organisation like BAC to help us promote ‘Celebrate 2009’. Through BAC’s support we are able to provide a great experience for everyone including the members of the orchestra, our talented soloists and of course our audience,” Ms Doheny said.

“It is also fitting that a strong Queensland company like BAC are supporting us in the year of BPO’s 10th birthday - the same year as Queensland’s 150th.We are looking forward to playing the first show at Brisbane City Hall and to a great start to a very successful 2009.”

The Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra is the only community orchestra to be recognised at the National Orchestra Awards.

The 2009 subscription concerts, expected to reach an audience of over 8000 people, will be held at; Brisbane City Hall 15 March, Old Museum Concert Hall 10 March, Old Museum Concert Hall 13 September and Brisbane City Hall 29 November.

There will also be performances throughout South East Queensland including Boonah and Blackbutt. More information on the Celebrate 2009 season can be found on the BPO website at www.bpo.org.au.