Park both host and star of outdoor show
QUEENSLAND’S Chamber Orchestra will debut a new piece of music inspired by Paronella Park at the popular tourist attraction next month.
The park, near Innisfail, will play host to Camerata at a special outdoor concert in front of the iconic stone castle on Sunday, May 7.
Brisbane composer Michael Patterson travelled to the attraction last week for inspiration to compose a new piece of music, which will premiere during the concert.
Mr Patterson said it was important for him to visit Paron- ella Park to take in the atmosphere of the place to create his piece.
“The music has to fit the context,” he said.
“I collect adjectives that apply visually and try to create music that inspires the same emotions.
“The creek murmuring, the sounds of the rainforest – melodies appear in my mind.
“With Paronella Park, Jose created the stunning architecture with many elements that are purely decorative.
“This, and the romantic story behind Paronella Park, will lend to creating a piece with a Spanish/Catalan influence with an element of love and romance.”
In 1929, Jose Paronella bought the property that has become Paronella Park, singlehandedly building his dream Spanish castle from stone.
His vision was to create a Spanish castillo and commercial pleasure garden in the heart of the rainforest.
Park operator Mark Evans said audience members would be encouraged to bring a blanket and picnic to the concert.
“Paronella Park has a long history with music,” he said.
“Jose himself was a musician who spent many an even- ing winding down after his hard work by playing his guitar and singing love songs from his home country.
“We are delighted to be hosting Camerata and ensuring that the gardens of Paronella Park are once again filled with the magic that music creates.”
Camerata performs live at Paronella Park on Sunday, May 7 from 2.30pm.
Tickets are included in the park entry fee. Go to paronella park.com.au for more details.