Brisbane audiences were treated to a dazzling evening of orchestral brilliance with Cinematic, a showcase by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra that celebrated the magic of film music. Held at the Concert Hall, QPAC, the performance brought together generations of movie lovers through the timeless scores of legendary composers such as John Williams, Hans Zimmer, and Joe Hisaishi. The event struck a perfect balance between sophistication and playfulness - yes, there was even a moment for the audience to sing along to the iconic Jaws theme!

This performance marked a standout moment in the 2025 season, offering a fresh reason for audiences to engage with the orchestra. By tapping into the universal appeal of cinema, Cinematic created an inviting space for people to connect over shared cultural touchstones. It was a clever move - film music resonates with modern audiences, and this program made orchestral music feel accessible, relevant, and deeply enjoyable.

The musicians embraced the glamour of Hollywood with elegant attire, trading last year’s superhero costumes for a more refined look that matched the grandeur of the evening. From the moment the lights hit the stage and pooled at the musicians’ feet, the atmosphere was electric. The sound design and lighting were meticulously crafted to enhance the experience, with every note and visual cue contributing to a sense of cinematic immersion.

Soloist Nina Korbe, soprano, delivered a stunning performance that added operatic depth and emotional nuance. Her voice soared above the instrumentation, creating moments of breathtaking contrast and harmony. The behind-the-scenes team deserves equal praise for their seamless execution - every detail, from staging to acoustics, was handled with precision and care.

The program served not only as entertainment but also as an educational experience, especially for younger attendees. It highlighted the distinct textures and roles of different orchestral sections - woodwinds versus brass, strings versus percussion - encouraging listeners to tune in more attentively. The strings, in particular, played a central role throughout the evening, acting as a driving force that carried the momentum of the performance like a river flowing through the score. Under the expert guidance of Conductor Benjamin Northey, the ensemble remained cohesive and dynamic.

Highlights included a generous helping of Star Wars themes, which delighted die-hard fans, and a cheeky rendition of the Jaws theme that ended with playful screams from the musicians themselves. Edelweiss from The Sound of Music was a deeply nostalgic moment, evoking childhood memories and sending shivers down the spine. The evening concluded with a double encore, capped off by Incredits from The Incredibles, featuring a sultry clarinet solo that brought the house down.

Cinematic was more than just a concert - it was a celebration of storytelling through sound, a reminder of the emotional power of music, and a testament to the Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s versatility and charm. If you missed this performance, don’t worry - the 2026 season promises even more, with programs that span film, games, animation, and beyond. There’s truly something for everyone. Come join the fun, and let the music move you.

Written By: Joanna Letic

Imagery: Alex Jamieson