Theonie Wang, (QLD) violin, is set to lead ANAM’s Gala Concert as concertmaster for Brahms’ Symphony No. 2— an exciting leadership position that gives Theonie the chance to work closely with her ANAM colleagues, and guest conductor Asher Fisch.
"My colleagues and I are beyond excited to work with Asher Fisch – I’ve heard nothing but the best about him. We are incredibly fortunate at ANAM to work with such world-class conductors, and can not wait to work alongside him."
Taking on the concertmaster role is no small feat, and Theonie has dedicated herself to understanding the nuances of Brahms' monumental Second Symphony. She has immersed herself in the full orchestral score, focusing not only on her own part but also on how each section interacts. She sees this symphony as a dialogue between instruments, a conversation where every voice contributes to the whole. The Austrian countryside, which inspired Brahms during its composition, is something she keeps in mind, aiming to bring out the work’s natural lyricism and warmth.
"What excites me most about working with Maestro Fisch is the chance to experience his unique approach to music-making. I've been deeply inspired by his Brahms Symphony recordings with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and am thrilled at the opportunity to perform under his baton. It’s a rare and special experience to work with someone of his calibre, and I’m confident it will have a lasting impact on my artistic development."
ANAM has played a crucial role in preparing her for this challenge. Through intensive sectional rehearsals with the ANAM string faculty and dedicated coaching from Sophie Rowell (ANAM Head of String Chamber Music), Theonie has honed her skills in leadership, communication, and musical interpretation. Her training at ANAM has reinforced the importance of leading with both authority and sensitivity, ensuring that the orchestra remains unified while allowing individual artistry to shine.
Beyond the Gala Concert, Theonie sees this role as a stepping stone in her career. While she remains open to different orchestral opportunities, she is particularly drawn to leadership positions, whether as a concertmaster or in other influential roles within an ensemble. The ability to communicate non-verbally, to anticipate a conductor’s interpretation, and to inspire fellow musicians are skills she is eager to continue developing.
Her time at ANAM has been instrumental in shaping this trajectory. Having started violin at just three years old and earning her Bachelor of Music in Queensland, she chose ANAM for its world-class faculty and holistic training environment. Studying under Adam Chalabi has deepened her artistic insight, while weekly coaching sessions with Sophie have refined her chamber and orchestral playing. She thrives in ANAM’s immersive, collaborative setting, which has prepared her for the next stage—potentially studying overseas in Europe.
For now, though, all eyes are on the Gala Concert on 21 March. Theonie is ready to step onto the Melbourne Recital Centre stage, lead the orchestra, and bring Brahms’ luminous Second Symphony to life. She invites audiences to experience the energy, passion, and musical dialogue that will unfold in this extraordinary performance.
ANAM ORCHESTRA GALA CONCERT WITH ASHER FISCH
Friday 21 March 2025, 7pm
Anna CLYNE This Midnight Hour
Lachlan SKIPWORTH Flute Concerto (Victorian premiere)
Johannes BRAHMS Symphony No. 2 in D Major, op. 73
Asher Fisch conductor
Andrew Nicholson flute
ANAM Orchestra
Venue Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, Melbourne Recital Centre
Tickets Standard $85/$75, Senior/Under 30 $70/$60, Concession $60/$50, Child (under 15) $20
Asher Fisch’s Artistic Residency at ANAM is generously supported by David and Gai Taylor
Andrew Nicholson appears courtesy of West Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO)
This performance will be available as a delayed broadcast on ABC Classic