The All-New 2012 Lexus GS Series Launch in Brunei Darussalam

Lexus Brunei is a client of mine for whom I have had the pleasure of photographing a number of their events and an ad campaign. For this grand event — the official launching of the new 2012 Lexus GS series — I thought I would attend as a guest for a change and enjoy a relaxing night of entertainment. Walking up the steps of the Indera Samudra Grand Hall at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, I was greeted by staff who were initially puzzled to see me without my camera. What they didn’t realize was I had a PowerShot G11 tucked in my back pocket. I knew the event venue would be dimly lit and the G11 is hardly the right equipment to capture anything meaningful if the entire evening’s theme remained dark. As under-spec as the camera may be, I think I captured the essence of the evening rather alright.

You can also view these photos on my Facebook album

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Exclusive Lexus gift - a very cool LED pocket lamp designed in the form of a ceiling pendant light - for all invited guests attending the All-new 2012 Lexus GS Series Launch at The Empire Hotel & Country Club last night.

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The Lexus GS 350 F Sport gets an approving smile from a guest at the grand event.

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A precise eye for detail assures the GS 350 F Sport exudes a sporty, powerful exterior with a commanding road presence. (blurb from brochure)

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I understand how an analog clock conveys class and quality but it would take me a tad longer to tell the time just by glancing at the clock that's positioned right in the centre when compared to a digital clock which is a more assuring instant.

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Orchestra Citta di Firenze and Prague Chamber Orchestra at Toyota Classics 2009/2010

Continuing from my previous post I’m pleased to announce again the upcoming Toyota Classics 2011 orchestral event for the fourth consecutive year running. Also for the same duration, I have accepted NBT Brunei’s assignment in spite of telling myself year after year that I would come enjoy the event with my wife and kids instead, I have failed to make it happen. This year is no exception as I have confirmed my availability and I look forward to another opportunity to meet Vasko and Pamela along with members of the Northeast German Philharmonic Orchestra. Meanwhile here is a selection of my personal picks from the 2009 and 2010 orchestra performance not previously published, to give you an idea of what to expect if you’ve never been to one before.

Dear Jan, By accident I came across your wonderful pictures from my concert with the Prague Chamber Orchestra in Brunei. I found two photos of me that you shot directly on me. Many thanks and many best wishes!  You make beautiful photos! Thanks and best regards, Charles www.olivieri-munroe.com

| More pictures from Toyota Classics 2009 and 2010 on Facebook |

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Autographed posters from 2008 to 2010 and looking forward to adding 2011 to the collection.

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A portrait opportunity of Marie Fajtova, Soprano, Prague Chamber Orchestra during rehearsal.

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It's not very often you get a photo opportunity with members of the orchestra. Prague Chamber Orchestra was clearly an exception as Soprano Marie takes a breather in between rehearsals and my associate Anthony was on hand for this shot.

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If you've patronized a Toyota Classics event before, you would have noticed that timing their rather strict programme timing. This picture of the script and stop watch is evidence of how time critical the entire evening's programme is.

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The arrival of Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Sarah escorted by Mr Ninan Chacko, Managing Director of NBT Brunei.

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A gracious moment between Princess Sarah and Toyota Classics flower girl Lily.

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HRH Pengiran Anak Sarah looking at the Toyota Classics 2010 programme booklet.

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Prague Chamber Orchestra Conductor Charles Olivieri-Munroe

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There was a year when the three of us including associates Anthony and Gavin covered the event from rehearsal morning to the evening programme. What memorable fun that evening tured out to be.

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Prague Chamber Orchestra's timpanist takes a photo of his colleagues. I hope he took good pictures of Brunei during his stay.

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A light hearted moment between conductor and violinist of the Orchestra Citta di Frenzie during rehearsal.

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Action is louder than words. A two thumbs-up gesture from a front row guest says it all.

Toyota Classics 2011 Featuring Vasko and Pamela with Northeast German Philharmonic Orchestra

As official photographer to the Toyota Classics series in Brunei Darussalam since 2007, I began collecting the event posters from 2008 with autographs by the conductor, soprano, artists. What began a biennial event has turned into an annual affair for the last 4 consecutive years — yes, it’s that popular! This year Toyota Classics 2011 blends tradition with contemporary, meeting East and West with Pamela and Vasko in concert with the Northeast German Philharmonic Orchestra. I’m excited at the possibility (read on for details of ticket prices and availability).

| Selected images from Toyota Classics 2009 and 2010 |

Click on image to view full size.

Toyota Classics 2011 proudly opens its prestigious doors to present classical music with the unique touch of Pamela and Vasko. Aside from performing and recording all over the world as a piano and violin duo, these skilful artists are famed for innovative projects which bring classical music to the cutting edge of popular culture. Vasko, nicknamed ‘Super-Paganini’ by the press, is a former child prodigy himself, and the youngest ever Concertmaster of the Royal Opera House in London. The Northeast German Philharmonic Orchestra make a welcome return to Toyota Classics to perform exciting new arrangements with both exceptional talents. Under the talented conduction of Thomas Dorsch and performing Pamela’s cross-cultural creations that enchants generations, this fine orchestra delivers an enviable musical heritage, classics as you have never heard before.

Toyota Classics 2007 Cadaques Orchestra | Toyota Classics 2008 Vienna Operetta Orchestra

Click on image to view full size.TOYOTA CLASSICS 2011 on 26th October, Wednesday
Door opens 8:00pm, Programme starts 8.30pm, International Convention Centre
Ticket Prices: B$150, B$120, B$80, B$50, B$30
Tickets are available at All NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd showrooms
Call Hajah Wan at 2445887/8770154 or Sheilla at 8732200 (BSB) or Jessica Yee at 8747700 (KB)