By PETER DOUGLAS
THE Montrose Town Centre is set to host one of the world’s leading harp soloists, Alice Giles.
In what will be the final show at the venue before extension works begin on the site, Giles will perform on Sunday, 19 June, as part of the Classical Tracks program.
After presenting her first solo recital at age 13, and making her New York solo debut in 1983, Giles is internationally recognised and has performed with some of the world’s most prestigious orchestras.
Her list of musical achievements is just as stunning as the sounds that emanate from her harp.
Giles told the ‘Mail’ she feels lucky to be able to perform solo at Montrose, which will be her first show in the region.
“Playing solo is my favourite thing to do, it gives me a great sense of freedom in interpreting the music,” she said.
“The harp is a very versatile instrument and has a lot of colours and expression.
“It has much larger sounds than people imagine.”
Giles said more people are appreciating the harp worldwide, including both classical and popular audiences.
“Not many realise it’s a very physical instrument … there are seven pedals … you use your whole body,” she said.
“It’s really a full-time instrument, I put in many hours before a performance to be at the top of my playing … to have that stamina and control.
“But it’s a challenge that I enjoy.”
Giles will perform pieces from Bach, Britten, Berio and Salzedo, which she says are her favourite to perform solo.
After playing and teaching extensively worldwide, Giles has returned to Australia as Associate Professor at the ANU School of Music and now teaches at the University of Sydney.
For more details and tickets, visit ach.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
