The Macao Orchestra (OM, from the Portuguese acronym), under the auspices of the Cultural Affairs Bureau, presented the concert “The Musical Footprint of Dvořák”, part of the Shining Virtuosos series, on 10 March at the Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium. In the concert, renowned Italian cellist Mario Brunello was invited to perform Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in B minor, the only cello concerto by the composer, followed by Legends, Op. 59, No. 1 and the Symphony No. 8 in G Major. An autograph session by Brunello was held at the same venue after the performance, with the enthusiastic participation of the public.

The concert “The Musical Footprint of Dvořák”, under the baton of Music Director of the Macao Orchestra Lu Jia, was jointly presented by the Macao Orchestra and prominent cellist Mario Brunello, featuring works by Antonín Dvořák, whose music was considered influential in the 19^th century international music circles. Dvořák was reputed for his brilliant composition skills and intriguing sensory charm, and he was also skilled at combining the German and Austrian symphonic traditions with the magic of Slovak folk music. In the concert, Brunello offered a perfect rendition of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in B minor using a precious Maggini cello of the early 19^th-century, which was well received by the audience, after which OM performed Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 in G Major, drawing the concert to a successful close.

Before the concert, the Macao Orchestra specially organized the “Cello Master Class with Mario Brunello”, in which the celebrated cellist provided guidance and advice to music students in Macao.

In addition, the Macao Orchestra will present the concert “Weekend Music Party – Baby’s First Musical Experience” on Saturday, 17 March, at 4pm, at the Dom Pedro V Theatre, offering the audience a professional prenatal music experience. Tickets for the concert are priced at MOP120 and MOP100. Ticketing hotline: (853) 2855 5555. Ticketing website: www.macauticket.com. For details and enquiries about the programme, please call (853) 2853 0782 during office hours or visit Macao Orchestra’s website at www.icm.gov.mo/om.