In 2017, the TSO commissioned young Tasmanian composers Rhys Gray and Thomas Misson to write short pieces of music for the Second Echo Ensemble production CONTESTED LAND. Second Echo Ensemble is a Hobart-based performance group whose mission is to  create and present exceptional performances that challenge assumptions, shake up stereotypes and give voice to untold stories.

Rhys and Thomas, who were selected in consultation with Maria Grenfell, were assigned their topics by Michael Fortescue, long-time TSO Double Bass and current music director of Second Echo Ensemble, and were mentored by TSO percussionist, conductor and composer Gary Wain. The two works, Love Theme for Second Echo and The Contest, were recorded on 24 May and performed in the TSO Studio.

The Contest by Rhys Gray

We’ve been Tasmania’s orchestra for over 75 years. We’re proud to be one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies and part of the DNA of Tasmanian cultural life – we have been inspiring, invigorating, and delighting audiences through music since 1948. We are recognised across the island and throughout the world for our distinctive artistic identity that is forged from our people and our place.

The Contest by Rhys Gray

Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra