Russian born maestra Natalia Raspopova will soon conduct Shostakovich’s Symphony No.5 and Dvorak’s Cello Concerto, featuring 97 students of the Queensland Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra.
Natalia came to Australia when she was 16 and has been with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra since July 2015, where she has assisted international conductors such as Simone Young, Maxim Vengerov, and Fabien Gabel.
Currently assistant conductor with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Natalia is now working closely with students — an experience Queensland Conservatorium Deputy Director (Performance and Engagement),Peter Luff describes as “extremely fast-paced and exciting”.
“Natalia has an earnest and intense style of conducting as well as great knowledge and an uncompromising style,” he says.
“Her technique is impeccable — she had the students playing well in the very first fifteen minutes.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for young artists to learn from Natalia and share in her passion for Shostakovich.”
The concerto will also feature 21-year-old student cellist Kelly Lee, who was recently accepted into the Royal Academy of Music in London.
Kelly, who is currently studying with leading cellist Meta Weiss, says being able to learn from and perform with professionals while studying has had a significant impact on her.
“I believe the true beauty of a musician is being able to perform – so to do so under the direction of internationally acclaimed conductors and musicians is an incredible opportunity for growth and progression as an artist,” she says.
Kelly will commence her studies in London this September after completing her degree at Queensland Conservatorium, where she has received the Griffith Award for Academic Excellence two years in a row.
Shostakovich 5 with Natalia Raspopova
7.30pm, Friday 22 April
Conservatorium Theatre, Queensland Conservatorium
140 Grey Street, South Bank
Tickets via qtix