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Philharmonic music festival a hit

4 May 2005

More than 450 musicians participated in the first Monash University Philharmonic Society music festival at Monash's Clayton campus on Sunday.

The society was established in 1982 and comprises an orchestra, a concert band and a jazz band. Its members were accompanied by three other Monash ensembles as well as musicians from across Victoria.

Highlights of the day included performances by the Monash Jazz Orchestra and the Southern Area Concert Band. The festival also featured the world premiere of Melbourne's newest chamber ensemble, the Friends of Music Chamber Orchestra.

Festival publicity officer and participant Mr Samy Sakkal said the day had been a great success, with more than 700 people attending.

"People were able to enjoy a wonderful day of music, entertainment and food," he said.

"More importantly, the festival marked a new collaboration between university-based music ensembles and those from the community.

"Musicians aged from 13 to 80 performed together, capturing the spirit of the festival and uniting those with a love of music, regardless of their age and background.

"We hope to narrow the divide that exists between community music and academia and support some of the smaller bands around Melbourne."

Mr Sakkal said the festival was also a great opportunity to showcase Monash's facilities and encourage secondary students to continue pursuing their passion for music throughout their tertiary studies.

He said plans for the next festival were under way following the enormous success of the inaugural event.

The Monash University Philharmonic Society will also host an autumn concert on Saturday 28 May at the Music Auditorium, Clayton campus.