Federation Concert Hall
November 28, 2015

An all-star group of voices teamed up with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra to present one of the greatest works ever composed – Mozart’s Requiem. Dare to disagree with such high praise? Then you obviously didn’t see this spectacular live performance. Emma Matthews, Sally-Anne Russell, Steve Davislim and Teddy Tahu Rhodes formed a winning collection of soloists for the night, which began with a selection of arias, duets and a trio from Mozart’s various operas before the post-interval masterpiece.

The concert opened with Lieve sono al par del vento, an aria from Il sogno di Scipione. Matthews resembled royalty when she emerged in a tremendous turquoise gown, though her mischievous manner served the Mozart well. Sideways grins and quick vibrato matched the mood of this little piece, and a startlingly impressive high note had audience members gasp – and even chat about it after the concert. Unfortunately, the TSO’s small ensemble under the baton of Marko Letonja were so powerful that it was often possible to see Matthew’s lips moving but hear nothing of her voice at all.

Mezzo-soprano Sally-Anne Russell entered next in an equally vibrant pink dress, with bass Teddy Tahu Rhodes positioned behind her...