Mozart’s melodies to reverberate through Port Douglas in upcoming concert featuring local talents

MOZART’S MASTERPIECES

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Performers from Voices of the North, directed by Alteouise deVaughn, will join Strings of the North to perform Mozart’s masterpieces this Sunday at the Port Douglas Catholic Church. Picture: Voices of the North

This Sunday, the Port Douglas Catholic Church will come alive with the timeless melodies of Mozart, providing the community with a special evening of classical music performed by talented local artists.

The concert, featuring Douglas Shire community choir ‘Voices of the North’ and local ensemble ‘Strings of the North’, promises to be a celebration of Mozart’s enduring legacy.

Alteouise deVaughn, renowned mezzo-soprano and director of Voices of the North, will collaborate with Kirtley Walker-Halstead, esteemed violinist leading Strings of the North. Picture: Alteouise deVaughn

Leading the performance is conductor Alteouise deVaughn, a renowned mezzo-soprano with international opera experience and recipient of prestigious awards.

Ms deVaughn, known locally for her tenure as musical director at The Clink Theatre, also serves as the singing coach and mentor for the vocalists of Voices of the North.

Among the talented performers is 17-year-old soprano Holly Dowell, a Port Douglas local who has studied under Ms deVaughn since she was six and is now preparing for the Conservatorium. 

Joining her are soprano Catherine Knight, mezzo-soprano Amanda Du Bruyn, tenor Anthony Conn, and bass soloist Dawyne McColm.

''Strings of the North' is led by renowned violinist Kirtley Walker-Halstead, a chamber music artist with a 37-year international career. She is accompanied by second violinist Christine Marnane and cellist Peter O'Reilly.

Alteouise deVaughn explained that they chose Mozart’s work for its timeless appeal and artistic depth. “He is one of my favourite composers, and we wanted to present a stunning concert showcasing his music,” she said.

“This concert is a chance for our local performers to shine and for the community to come together and support us.”

When asked about her personal favourite piece by Mozart, she enthusiastically mentioned the Requiem.

“It’s an oratorio composed for the church, specifically a mass for the dead, it’s just incredibly beautiful,” she explained.

“Anyone who’s seen the movie ‘Amadeus’ would recognise music from the Requiem, particularly the poignant Lacrimosa towards the end.”

The concert will commence at 5pm on Sunday, July 21st, at Port Douglas Catholic Church, 2 Endeavour St. Tickets are available for $30 at the door, and school children can attend for free.

Ticket sales for the concert will support the performers’ trip to the 2025 Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville this August.

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