The Fernleigh Wind Ensemble was created by the newly established Fernleigh Orchestral and Arts Network (FOAN), with founder Dr Ian Cook. FOAN was created to encompass, represent and showcase the creative spectrum which connects Newcastle to Lake Macquarie. The ensemble and network name is inspired by the Fernleigh Track, built on a former rail line that connects the two areas. As a conductor, academic and artistic director with over 40 years’ experience as a music educator, Dr Cook is uniquely placed to launch such an exciting initiative.

In their first festival performance, they will bring Johan de Meij’s new symphony to Newcastle. After 30 years, composer Johan de Meij revisits Middle-Earth, the enchanting mythological world of J.R.R. Tolkien, with his Symphony No. 5 Return to Middle Earth. Although there are some thematic reminiscences of his monumental first symphony The Lord of the Rings from 1988, De Meij puts a completely different musical vibe into this new symphony. There is an important role for a solo soprano and a mixed choir: they sing in Ilkorin, one of the Elvish languages of Middle-Earth. The ensemble welcomes Sara Carvalho as soloist in this great new work.

AT THE FESTIVAL