Artists unite in harmony

The chemistry on stage during The Opera Gala will be undeniable.

Baritone Jose Carbo and Scottish-Australian soprano Jenna Robertson, a couple off-stage, will perform alongside John Martin, one of Australia’s best-loved pianists, and the Albany Choral Society for the Albany Arts Festival.

Because they know each other so well, the duo have a natural affinity which translates on stage when they present duets by Puccini, Rossini, Donizetti, Bizet, Massenet and Gershwin as well as by Australian composers.

The intimate performance will also be the world premiere of Albany composer Sebastian Harris.

Robertson said that the event features international artists and those well-known locally and nationally.

“It includes Jose, an artist who has performed in the greatest opera houses of the world such as La Scala, John Martin, one of the top pianists in the country, myself — who Sebastian calls Albany's favourite soprano, and local artists Sebastian the composer and the voices of the Albany Choral Society,” she said.

“I love that our event touches all these things and combines international opera talent with the local community.”

She said they will be performing some music that will be familiar to the audience and other gems that are more rarely performed.

“I have been so impressed with the Albany audiences in the past.

“We wanted to give them a really good program. We will sing solos and some duets, and some pieces together with the Albany Choral Society,” she said.

“We have the incredible pianist John Martin playing all night, special guest appearances from the Albany Choral Society conducted by Neville Talbot, and we have some amazing Australian music that we're really excited about.”

The Opera Gala will take to the stage at Albany Entertainment Centre on Saturday, March 20 at 7:30pm.

Tickets are available online at ptt.wa.gov.au.