A Magic Music Morning

Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) returns to delight all ages with Family Proms, handing over the reins – or rather, the baton – to young music lovers, as they embark on a magical music journey with musicians.

By Tierney Seccull

Featuring DSO's fabulous Young Artists, leading listeners through the many different sounds that make up an orchestra, it’s a beautiful experience that’s sure to bring joy. DSO Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Jon Tooby says it’s a hoot.

“It’s really become a bit of a fixture now. I think that’s because it’s just so fun and interactive and informative. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring children to see a whole symphony orchestra play in a really, really engaging environment – I think that’s why it’s so special, it’s just really fun.”

The whole family is invited to experience the orchestra up close, learning about the instruments and the different sounds they make, with an immersive walk through to check out the goods.

This year, there’s also singing and dancing, and all children are given a paper straw baton to mimic the act of conducting the orchestra. Some lucky kiddos also get the chance to take control of the DSO baton and conduct the orchestra. Tooby says this part is always a joy to witness.

“It’s so exciting to see their faces light up. Just hearing a new sound, awakening their imagination. We all hear music on the radio or our phones, but we don’t necessarily know where the sounds come from, so to see the instruments actually producing the sounds completely acoustically is really, really exciting for a lot of kids.”

Round up the crew, pop on your listening ears – little and big – and treat them to some local sounds.

Family Proms
WHEN SAT 18 MAR | 11AM–12PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $15
INFO dso.org.au