The world première of Mountain by Sydney-based Tasmanian composer Angus Davison was the centrepiece of this program. The new work, around 15 minutes in duration, was commissioned by and dedicated to the Hobart Chamber Orchestra.

Inspired by kunanyi/Mount Wellington – the majestic backdrop to the city of Hobart – the work’s three movements (Dawn, On the Pipeline Track, and Tarn with Bubbles and Organ Pipes in the Background) is scored for string orchestra and synthesiser.

The first movement evolves from a hushed start with the sounds of birdlife to a startlingly intense string climax, while the bustle and joy of the second recalls childhood outings on the mountain.

Hobart Chamber Orchestra. Photo supplied

The finale makes very effective use of violins playing high harmonics with tremolo to achieve a glassy effect underpinned by bass resonances from the synthesiser, representing the transparent surface of the famous ‘disappearing tarn’ on the mountain.

The HCO strings, supported by Finn Clarke on synthesiser and conducted by Gary Wain, produced excellent dedicated results. The mood of the occasion was enhanced by the presence of artworks depicting kunanyi and in readings by poets Kathryn Lomer and Sarah Day.

This first...