The stars
aligned in 2015 to produce two landmark anniversaries: the Australian Chamber
Orchestra celebrated its 40th birthday, and Richard Tognetti marked 25 years as
its Director. This tight-knit, wildly popular and often ground-breaking musical
ensemble manages to satisfy the demands of the musically literate as well as
concert first-timers; the demands of a punishing national touring schedule; and
the demands of taking excellence in Australian music-making to the world. Recognised
internationally as world-class, the ACO carries its burdens lightly with a
terrific brand of camaraderie, discipline and fun. Tognetti has brought
charisma and amazing energy to his leadership of the ACO: in this book, he and
his musicians are captured in photographs and in their own words, on stage, in
rehearsal and in their private lives.
