By CHERIE DONNELLAN
WHO knew classic cartoon character Wile E Coyote could have anything in common with a classical music conductor?
Johann Strauss Ensemble conductor Russell McGregor will wow Geelong audiences with his anvil-playing skills next week – without falling off any cliffs.
But in case that seems a little too quirky for classical music buffs, McGregor will also conduct a 22-piece orchestra and play violin solos, sometimes simultaneously.
The multi-tasking musical style, known as Stehgeiger, was one adopted by Strauss himself.
McGregor, who grew up in Melbourne before relocating to Austria in 1992, learned to play violin from the tender age of seven years.
He earned his accreditation at Victorian College of the Arts in the 80s and within a decade, was chosen to lead the Vienna Chamber Opera.
His orchestral talent and charisma was recognised within a year of joining the Strauss Ensemble which he has now spent a decade conducting.
In a one-night-only July 21 performance at Geelong Performing Arts Centre, McGregor will showcase the talent of his ensemble with Vienna On Fire.
Audiences could expect their ears to be delighted with interpretations of Strauss’ famous waltzes and polkas like Weiner Blut, Bandit’s Galop and Thunder and Lightning.
And for those longing to hear the quirky sounds of the anvil, listen out for the Fire Proof! polka.
Tickets cost $75-$80 and are available from GPAC, phone 5225 1200 or visit gpac.org.au.
