BOP Symphonia tangoing to the try line

The BOP Symphonia embraces the opportunity to bring rugby and classical musical fans singing from the same songbook with Taiko to Tango. Photo/supplied

Classical music and rugby fans aren't usually found singing in the same line-out. But this year the BOP Symphonia are trying something "a bit different" and are basing a concert on the theme of 2016 Super Rugby competition.

Taiko to Tango is an exciting musical expedition that reflects the travels of the SuperRugby players as they journey to different lands and cultures in pursuit of rugby glory.

Taiko to Tango presents a unique opportunity that will bring rugby and musical cultures together in a concert that will be enjoyed by those who don't usually attend orchestral concerts, as well as the Symphonia's regular audience," says Symphonia marketing coordinator, Laura Thomson Bache.

The musical expedition starts at home with the first movement of Lilburn's Landfall in Unknown Seas opening the show on string orchestra, followed by the catchy, partly rearranged composition of Farquhar's Ring Round the Moon.

Knowing that Japan would be included in the competition gave the Symphonia the attractive option of incorporating the high energy spectacle of the ancient art of taiko drumming.

"The Symphonia's Music Director, Justus Rozemond, knew of the Tamashii Taiko Drummers from Auckland and they were enthusiastic from the start to join the symphonia.

"Until you have seen and heard taiko you really can't imagine what it is like. The Tamashii Taiko Drummers themselves describe it as 'Music as an extreme sport'. Rozemond also spent many hours searching for music that would represent the other countries.

"The pieces by NZ composers are very easy to listen to despite being written by some of our country's most influential composers, while those from Australia are varied and equally enjoyable," she says.

"A lively taste of percussion and strings takes us across the South African plains and onwards to Australia. Our travels across the outback start with a fun twist, with Hyde's Fantasia on Waltzing Matilda followed by pieces from top Australian composers Sculthorpe and Grainger. Our final destination of Argentina completes the programme with two sensuous tangos by Piazzolla.

the fine print
What: Taiko to Tango
Where: Baycourt
When: 7 May, 7pm
Tickets: www.ticketek.co.nz or Baycourt.