THE West Australian Mandolin Orchestra have a very special 50th anniversary matinee concert coming up at the Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, November 14.

Fifty years ago, Robert Schulz founded the Fremantle Mandolin Orchestra which has since become the West Australian Mandolin Orchestra.
In the years since, the orchestra has grown and flourished and performed for many appreciative audiences in Perth and beyond.

“Sadly, our founder passed away in 2025 - but his spirit lives on in the piece of music he composed in anticipation of this event - ‘5 Decades 5 Moods’,” a spokesperson said.

The program also features additional works by Mr Schulz, as well as a delightful selection of music by other composers.

The orchestra will also be joined by Japanese mandolin virtuoso, Masataka Hori who will perform a breathtaking solo set as well as conduct the orchestra for the composition by Mr Schulz.

Under the baton of Ana Milas, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the unique sound of the mandolin orchestra and celebrate five decades of music making.

The concert will be held at the Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre, 48 Canning Road on Saturday, November 14 commencing at 3pm. The bar will be open from 2.30pm.

Tickets are $40 and available online and via the Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre website.

More information on the orchestra is available online.