Sydney Mandolin Orchestra - Southern Highlands

Established in 1932, Sydney Mandolin Orchestra (SMO), is Australia's longest running mandolin orchestra and is dedicated to growing and sharing the tradition of mandolin music in Sydney. The 25 piece plucked string orchestra consists of mandolins, mandolas, mandocello, classical guitars, double bass and percussion, and is often joined by guest soloists on wind instruments. While similar in function to a bowed string orchestra, the plucked string technique of SMO never fail to surprise and delight audiences with its distinctively delicate, percussive and richly expressive ensemble sound. With a large and growing repertoire that spans classical, Neapolitan, folk, modern, popular and much more, the orchestra regularly entertains audiences at public concerts and private events in Sydney and surrounding regions. For its debut performance in Bowral, SMO will present an exciting program of classical, romantic and contemporary mandolin music from Europe, Asia and Australia including two world premieres by Sydney based composers Raf Marcellino - Orana Journey, and Brent Keogh – Four Swordsmen. The concert will also feature the wonderful talents of renowned Saxophonist Julian Gough in Gunsenheimer's Blues Sonata.