The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and Community Centres SA are bringing two free concerts to Playford in November, offering the community an opportunity to indulge in family-friendly classical music performances.

Featuring some of the state’s finest string players, free one-hour concerts will be held at the John McVeity Centre on 1 November at 2pm and at the Grenville Hub on 6 November at 10am.

The concerts will be hosted and conducted by Martin Butler and feature a unique take on Beethoven’s Ode To Joy, while guests will experience the charm of Morricone’s Cinema Paradiso. Also on the playlist is Peter Martin’s Vivaldiana and Soon Hee Newbold’s Battle.

The conductor, Martin Butler, is as impressive as the string players themselves, boasting a career which spans more than 35 years, including a stint in Portugal where he was a violinist in the National Theatre of São Carlos, a historic opera house located in Lisbon.

He was a violist with ASO from 1990-2021 and the Burnside Symphony Orchestra conductor between 1994-2008, and awarded an OAM in 2018, for his services to music education.

City of Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty welcomed the ASO to northern Adelaide and encouraged residents to take advantage of this unique opportunity to witness world-class performances.

Council is excited to have secured not just one, but two free concerts by the ASO for our community to enjoy this spring,” the Mayor said. “We know our community loves coming together for events to socialise and connect with each other. Hosting free music events like these is fantastic because it ensures everyone can participate and this concert series brings something unique for both music lovers and those who enjoy classical music.”

While the concerts are free, people are being encouraged to book their complimentary ticket and secure their seat.

“These concerts are not to be missed, so I encourage the community to book a seat and enjoy this sensational experience.”

After the JMC concert, the Lions Club will provide a BBQ for attendees. To register your seat please visit aso.com.au/events/free-community-concerts-2024/.