Concordia Mandolin and Guitar Ensemble
Formed in 1978, the ensemble comprises approximately 30 members playing mandolins, mandolas, guitars, one mandocello, one double bass and one piano accordion. Concordia is frequently joined by woodwind, string and vocal soloists
Its first conductor was the prominent guitarist John Griffiths, now a Professor of Music at the University of Melbourne. In 1984, Concordia, under the direction of Frank Mazitelli, toured Italy giving concerts in some central and northern cities. In 1996 the Orchestra under the direction of Basil Hawkins produced its first compac disc, ‘Salut d'Amour’.
Its repertoire includes baroque, classical, romantic, contemporary and popular music. The ensemble regularly performs in many venues in Melbourne and country Victoria.
Concordia Mandolin and Guitar Ensemble is featured on the following titles
Flight
Performer
This disc from Concordia Mandolin and Guitar Ensemble draws on the more virtuosic, lively and passionate items in the repertoire of the ensemble. The idea of flight is evoked in the choice of many of the pieces, notably "The flight of the bumble bee" and "The witches". All the other pieces in one way or another echo, with their energy and vitality, the rapture of flights of fancy.
Concordia Mandolin and Guitar Ensemble also appears on
Forgotten Dreams
Performer
It was in 1999 when Concordia director Basil Hawkins first came across The waltz of forgotten dreams by Hadjidakis. He was struck by its atmospheric and evocative nature and in keeping with this nostalgic ambience, the selection on this disc includes such pieces as Eileen Pakenham's Reverie and Fred Witt's Memories of Bendigo.
Eclectic Collection
Performer
The mandolin orchestra is very versatile. The purpose of this CD is to demonstrate something of its diversity and distinctive character.
Salut d'Amour
Performer
A highly atmospheric and distinctively beautiful collection of pieces for mandolin orchestra.
