About Orchestra Nova
Orchestra Nova is Newcastle's and the Hunter’s community orchestra. It was originally formed in 1991 as the Novocastrian Arts Orchestra. Orchestra Nova generally performs as a 40 to 50 piece symphony orchestra, but also performs with smaller numbers when appropriate. Our music director is Dr Mark Pinner.
Now in our 29th year of operation, Orchestra Nova continues to perform several concert seasons per year featuring well-known popular and classical music for the community’s enjoyment. Typically the performances are held at the Lake Macquarie Performing Arts Centre and include a Children’s concert in September each year.
The orchestra also performs with a variety of choirs and guest conductors and artists (e.g. Newcastle University Choir, Newcastle City Choir, Waratah Girls Choir, Shakespeare et al) and has been involved in productions with Opera Hunter (e.g. Les Miserables and Carmen) and the Sound Construction Company (The Secret Garden).
Musicians
The musicians playing in Orchestra Nova range from students to retired professionals and are from many walks of life including teachers, doctors, and engineers. As a community orchestra we welcome players to all sections of the orchestra. At present we are particularly keen to take on more violinists and bassoonists. If you would like to enquire about becoming a member of the orchestra please let us know via the contact button shown above.
Conductor
Robin Fischle chose to pursue a career in music during his final years at high school. Upon leaving, he studied French Horn with Allan Mann at the Sydney Conservatorium while completing a Bachelor of Arts degree at Sydney University. While at university, Robin gained experience playing horn in musicals produced by amateur music societies in Sydney and Wollongong. He also played as a freelance player in J.C. Williamson stage shows, and in recording sessions.
After completing University, he joined the horn section of the Elizabethan Theatre Trust Orchestra (Sydney), which later became the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra. He played at the opening of the Sydney Opera House with the orchestra.
Robin moved to Newcastle in 1982 to take up the position of Lecturer in Brass at the Newcastle Conservatorium. During his time there, Robin formed the Conservatorium Brass Ensemble, conducted the Conservatorium Children’s Orchestra, while occasionally conducting the Conservatorium Senior Orchestra, as well as undertaking an annual survey of student musical performances in the Hunter Valley.
Now in retirement, Robin enjoys reading, attending concerts including opera and ballet performances, and planning repertoire for Orchestra Nova. Robin also enjoys travelling, and has had the opportunity to travel extensively across Europe, mostly alone, but also with his two daughters.
Seeking new director!
Expressions of interest for the role of Music Director and Conductor.
Mr Robin Fischle will retire as our Music Director and Conductor in July 2019 having made a significant contribution to Orchestra Nova over many years.
The orchestra now seeks expressions of interest for the role of Music Director and Conductor.
For further information please contact the Orchestra President, Miles Bore: Click to start Email
