MSO + VPO

In 2021, the Vanessa Perica Orchestra enjoyed two collaborations with the
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for these large scale projects.

SPANISH HARLEM

The program featured the world premiere of ‘Love is a Temporary Madness, The Symphonic Suite,’ commissioned by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

Performed by the MSO, Vanessa Perica Orchestra, and conducted by Benjamin Northey. Hear the concert in full here at MSO.Live.

“I just think it’s one of the most astonishing things I’ve ever heard. It is big band orchestral writing of the highest quality. Would stand up anywhere in the world.“ - Benjamin Northey, Principal Conductor in Residence, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

“Absolutely electric. The audience are on their feet, they love it. They can sense something pretty special just happened.” - Greta Bradman, ABC Classic

“Vanessa Perica is a dynamic compositional voice who rewards the mind, soul and ears of the listener in equal measure - her writing deftly nestling innovation among tradition, revealing original musical moments around every corner.” - Matt Hoy, former Creative Artistic Lead, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

“…deeply satisfying evening, shining a spotlight on a new star in the jazz firmament.” - 4.5 stars, The Age

Read the full review here.

MSO x MIJF
Opening Night Gala

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Vanessa Perica Orchestra and Benjamin Northey joined forces again for the Melbourne International Jazz Festival’s Opening Night Gala at Hamer Hall. Featuring vocalists Kate Ceberano, Michelle Nicolle, Eddie Perfect, Thando, Emma Donovan, Josh Kyle and Harry James Angus. Performing compositions and arrangements by
Vanessa Perica and Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Chris Crenshaw.

“For me, the final two numbers of the evening (both arranged by Perica) provided the night’s most satisfying moments. On The Peacocks, singer Michelle Nicolle revelled in the rich orchestral colours and slid across angular melodic intervals with unerring poise. And Perica’s composition Rebrahmanization made for a majestic finale, the MSO and big band relishing the tune’s joyful propulsion that swept us along in its wake.” - The Age

Photo credits - Spanish Harlem: Mark Gambino, MIJF Gala: Duncographic