A^CO₂ HELENA RATHBONE - DIRECTOR

A^CO₂, the Australian Chamber Orchestra's precocious little sister, delivers the ACO's regional touring and education programs.

 

A^CO₂ connects the next generation of talented young Australian musicians with the stars of the ACO, creating a combined ensemble with a fresh, energetic performance style. The young musicians have all participated in the ACO's Qantas Emerging Artist Program and many already play in the state symphony orchestras but choose to spend time experiencing the ACO's high-octane performance style. The best go on to tour nationally and internationally with the ACO and it is testament to the program's success that former A^CO₂ members Rebecca Chan and Madeleine Boud have been appointed members of the ACO.

 

A^CO₂ commenced touring in 2007 and have visited over 70 regional centres in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia. Guest stars have included Tim Freedman from The Whitlams, oud player Joseph Tawadros and Finnish violinist Pekka Kuusisto. A^CO₂ performed in the Classical Destinations II television series screened worldwide and now released on CD and DVD by Sony.

 

A^CO₂ runs workshops for school-aged students in regional and metropolitan areas. Thus the ACO’s Education Program identifies, connects and mentors three generations of Australian string players, making the future very bright indeed.