ASO musicians join Port Adelaide on the football field in Shanghai

ACCM Group
May 13, 2017
2 min read

ASO musicians join Port Adelaide on the football field in Shanghai on Sunday 14 May, Jiangwan Stadium, Shanghai.

When Port Adelaide steps onto the field for the first ever AFL football match played in China for premiership points, they won’t be the only South Australian institution making history.

Pre-game, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra musicians will also have a moment in the spotlight when they join didjeridu virtuoso William Barton and Chinese drummers from the Shanghai Empireast Culture Group to perform the specially commissioned Rooster Fanfare. Written by Australian composer, Sean O’Boyle, the three minute performance will make its world premiere and musically represent the coming together of Australian and Chinese cultures.

As part of its China engagement strategy, the ASO is keen to facilitate musician and cultural exchanges between our two countries; the commissioning of the Rooster Fanfare is the first tangible example of work in this space. This project, the first of several for 2017-18, was made possible by a generous three year philanthropic commitment by Dr Sing Ping Ting.

ASO Managing Director, Vincent Ciccarello says “Since its inception in 1936, the ASO has played a significant role in the cultural life of South Australia. It seems only fitting that its cultural impact extend beyond our shores just as our beloved local game does. The arts and sport are not mutually exclusive and, just as I am passionate about music, am equally a fan of Port Adelaide Football Club, and so am delighted that we are involved in this historic moment.”

“It is a great honour to have the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra perform ahead of our historic game in Shanghai,” said PAFC CEO, Mr Ketith Thomas.

“Our China strategy has been underpinned by the aspiration of bringing two cultures together through our indigenous game of AFL.To further unite both cultures through the power music in the lead up to the first bounce will be very special and is consistent with the entire spirit of the day.” Premier Jay Weatherill added: “This is an inspired collaboration of sports and the arts. “At this historic event, it will be great to see members of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra performing on the field ahead of the first bounce.

“Combining the didgeridoo and Chinese drummers will symbolise our partnership with China.”

ACCM Managing Director Michele (Left), coordinating ASO performance with Shanghai Empireast Culture Group on the AFL ground in Shanghai, with didjeridu virtuoso William Barton (middle), ASO Managing Director, Vincent Ciccarello (left)

The intention is also to bring the Chinese drummers to Adelaide, too, as a form of cultural exchange and all will perform at the ASO Chinese New Year Concert in February 2018.