Perth Symphony was extremely delighted to receive a contribution from BHP Billiton last month to help the orchestra buy some much needed equipment, and take music to young school kids in the outer metropolitan suburbs of Perth.

“BHP Billiton is a proud supporter of the arts in Western Australia.

Helping the Perth Symphony Orchestra to purchase equipment  that will be used in classrooms across the State ensures more young people will have access to the world of music.

We believe that by combining education with music is a powerful way to engage and at the same time have a little fun.”

– Richard O’Connell, Senior Manager Community, BHP Billiton

With the contribution from BHP Billiton, Perth Symphony will be able to purchase some brand new drum screens and orchestral baffles – equipment which is essential to the occupational health and safety of our musicians.  These items will help to protect the precious ears of those playing in the orchestra – because, where would out musicians be without their hearing?

We will also purchase some new battery powered, LED lights which will help to transform the places where we perform into magical spaces.  Think spotlights on soloists, lit-up heritage building features, softly coloured trees and so much more…

 

Perth Symphony Director, Bourby Webster, and Technical Manager, Gaetan Schurrer, with BHP Billiton Senior Manager Community – Richard O’Connell (middle) pictured here at Rottnest Island. Photo courtesy of Rottnest Island Chamber of Commerce.

 

 

BHP Billiton has also made a contribution towards Perth Symphony’s Education program: ‘PLAY WITH US’.  Together, we will take elements of this brand new program to children in less fortunate areas who may not have easy access to a wide range of live music performances.  We will collaborate with a small number of schools, creating a tailored program with the aim of bringing about a “musical revolution” for many children who have little or no exposure to live music, particularly classical. We hope to do for children and music what Jamie Oliver has done for children and food.

 

 

Perth Symphony percussionist – Paul Tanner with a percussion student at Scotch College, where ‘PLAY WITH US’ was launched at the beginning of 2015.

 

 

 

We are thrilled to announce this new relationship with BHP Billiton.

If you know of a school that would benefit from PLAY WITH US, please contact us to let us know more.