Photo Credit: Cricket Australia
The KFC Big Bash League has a new unique sound for the summer, with a collaboration between Cricket Australia, the prestigious Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and award-winning composer and music director, Chong Lim AM released to recognise the BBL’s tenth anniversary.
At the innings break of tonight’s season-opener between the Hobart Hurricanes and reigning BBL champions the Sydney Sixers at Blundstone Arena, fans in-stadium and at-home on the Seven Network broadcast were the first to hear a classical re-work of the triple-Platinum award-winning track ‘Sweet Disposition’ by Australian band, The Temper Trap.
The track accompanied a special video package showcasing the highlight moments of the KFC Big Bash League’s 10-year history – from the high-profile names, the technological innovations, the biggest sixes, the memorable innings, the title-winners and the fans.
WATCH: 10 years of highlights of the KFC Big Bash League
Mr Lim composed the score for an orchestral rendition of the popular Australian indie-rock anthem, and this week visited Hobart to rehearse and master the track with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra at the Federation Concert Hall.
Mr Lim said: “I was delighted to be asked to be part of this collaboration by Cricket Australia, and it was an honour to work with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.
“There is a sense of risk, but also the sense of embarking on a journey, when you take on such an iconic song like ‘Sweet Disposition’ and rearrange it for an orchestra.
“Then add in the element of arranging it to encapsulate the action and excitement of the BBL, we were striving to meet that balance between making it anthemic, but also respecting the original roots of the record.
“There is a lot that goes into the creative process, but we’re proud of the final product that we’ve made, and we hope BBL fans and indeed all Australians will enjoy it.”
Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra CEO, Caroline Sharpen said: “It’s a huge coup for the state of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra to work with someone as respected in the music industry as Chong is.
“For our musicians, it has been a real career highlight to rub shoulders with him, and also to take on a composition such as this one.
“The score stays true to the original song and utilises the full orchestra as it paces, rises and crescendos. In many ways, it replicates the range of emotions felt by players, coaches and fans during a T20 cricket match.
“We were delighted to work with Cricket Australia on the project. With the new season kick-starting here in Tasmania, there’s no better way to show the best of our state than combining the arts and our state’s love of sport.”
Cricket Australia’s Head of Big Bash Leagues, Alistair Dobson said: “We are very proud of the KFC Big Bash League turning 10 this season, and this collaboration is a fitting way to honour that milestone.
“Sweet Disposition has become the anthem of Australian cricket this summer following the recent launch of our What We’re Made Of marketing campaign.
“You can’t help but smile when looking back at some of the moments and the characters of the BBL in its history. The essence of the fun and family-friendly excitement is captured perfectly by Chong Lim and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.
“I’d take to thank Chong and the TSO for bringing the project to life. We can’t wait for KFC BBL|10 to provide more of the thrills we’ve enjoyed so far in the last decade.”
The KFC Big Bash League tonight embarked on the first match of its 61-game season. Fans can tune into the KFC BBL|10 on the Seven Network, FOXTEL, Kayo and SEN radio.
Credit:
“SWEET DISPOSITION”
Written by: Abby Mandagi and Lorenzo Sillitto (Mushroom Music)
Perf. by: Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
Arranged and conducted by: Chong Lim AM
Name of Author: Cricket Australia
Cricket Australia (CA), formerly the Australian Cricket Board (ACB), is the governing body for cricket in Australia. Established in 1905 as the Australian Board of Control for International Cricket, CA manages all national teams, including Men’s, Women’s, and Youth sides, as well as other national teams. It oversees the organization of Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is, and coordinates home international fixtures.