19 August 1998

Selections from the Saint-Saens Organ Symphony and Mozart's Concerto for two pianos will lead a stirring concert program on August 24 celebrating two silver anniversaries at the University of Queensland.

Performing orchestra and venue are both 25 years old; and each has grown, singly and together, to become significant University and community resources.

The gala public event will feature Pamela Page, Stephen Emmerson, Robert Boughen and other talented University musicians performing in one of Brisbane's best concert halls with facilities including one of the most magnificent pipe organs in Australia.

Mayne Hall has become a focal point for the St Lucia campus, looming large in the lives of students through events ranging from orientation week welcomes to examinations and graduation ceremonies.

Some of the world's best-known popular and classical musicians and entertainers have performed there and speakers as diverse as the Dalai Lama, Professor Peter Doherty, Geoffrey Rush, Imran Khan, Bob Hawke, Lord Jeffrey Archer and Peter Garrett have addressed audiences from the Mayne Hall lectern.

The 80-member University of Queensland Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Gwyn Roberts, showcases the talents of undergraduate performers and composers, and includes players from other faculties.

It splits into smaller groups - String Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Brass Ensemble - to perform in regional centres and Brisbane schools.

The repertoire includes full symphonic works, concertos with student soloists and conductors, compositions by students and performances with the School of Music choir and vocal ensemble Concentus.

_ The 25th anniversary concert begins at 7.30pm in Mayne Hall on Monday, August 24. Tickets ($5 students and concessions, adults $14, families $35) will be on sale at the door from 6.30pm. For more information, contact Maryann Martin (telephone 3365 3503)