This program was given to attendees at the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra and Gisborne Singers performance on 24th November 2024 In a thrilling conclusion to their 2024 concert season, Bendigo Symphony Orchestra present Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 ‘The Resurrection’ – a transcendent journey from darkness to light. Witness the symphony on a colossal scale: ten trumpets, ten horns, two sets of timpani and an organ are just the beginning of Mahler’s mighty orchestration. And after the success of 2022’s inaugural Symphonia Choralis festival, BSO are once again partnering with the Gisbourne Singers to bring this glorious work to life. “Why have you lived? Why have you suffered? Is it all some huge, awful joke? We have to answer these questions somehow if we are to go on living – indeed, even if we are only to go on dying!” Written in a letter to a friend, these are the questions Mahler hoped to answer with this symphony. While epitomising the emotion and drama of the Romantic era, the work also anticipates the radical advances of the 20th century. Beginning with a steely funeral march, Mahler spins German folk-song and klezmer-inspired flourishes through four stunning movements, culminating in a sublime hymn of resurrection. This symphony explores life and death on a cosmic scale, and showcases Mahler’s rich technicolour writing and flair for dramatic narrative. “The whole thing sounds as though it came to us from some other world. I think there is no one who can resist it. One is battered to the ground and then raised on angel’s wings to the highest heights.” Be swept away by an eternal masterpiece.MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 2 RESURRECTION Sunday 24th November 2024, 2.30pm Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo Luke Severn Chief Conductor Nicole Marshall Guest Conductor Merlyn Quaife AM Soprano Liane Keegan Contralto Gustav MAHLER Symphony No. 2 in C minor, ‘Resurrection’ I. Totenfeier: Allegro maestoso (25’) II. Andante moderato (12’) III. In ruhig fließender Bewegung (12’) IV. Urlicht (6’) V. Finale: Im Tempo des Scherzos (37’)bendigo symphony orchestra, luke severn, regional victorian orchestra, performance, gisborne singers

Gertrude Perry was born in California Gully in 1917. Her singing skills were recognized at an early age. She later sang with local choirs and sang on radio. She was involved with the Bendigo Operatic Society for many years. Gertrude began her working life in sales. After studying book keeping she worked at the Bendigo Ordnance Factory during WW2 and then worked for local solicitors and accountants. Gertrude was involved with many community and sporting organizations.Gertrude Perry Collection - handwritten note from Pat Slattery to "Gertie" referring to the reunion of the Bendigo Easter Fair Miss Popular Girls on 7th April 1991. The letter refers to two photos the writer has attached but which are not included in the folder. Lined paper has been torn from a writing pad. The letter has two fold marks.physical culture class, fitness, exercise, bendigo easter fair