Brisbane’s most celebrated singers hit the stage once more this week to receive the Keys to the City.
After 30 years of global success, The Ten Tenors received the Keys to the City of Brisbane on Wednesday, becoming just the 60th recipient in the city’s 100-year history.
From their beginnings at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music to performances on the world’s biggest stages, The Ten Tenors have taken Brisbane’s name to audiences across the globe.
Their contribution was recognised at an event at City Hall on Wednesday evening.
The Keys to the City is Brisbane’s highest civic honour, awarded to individuals or organisations that have made an exceptional and lasting contribution to the city.
In a further tribute, a Brisbane Metro vehicle was also named in honour of The Ten Tenors.
Formed in 1995 by the late Ken Lord and drawing on students from the Conservatorium and Opera Queensland, the group has included around 80 singers to date, performing more than 3,500 shows across 37 countries, selling millions of tickets and captivating audiences with their signature blend of classical power and contemporary flair.
Their career has included performances alongside international stars such as Andrea Bocelli and Lionel Richie, and they have recently returned to Australia for a sold-out 30-year anniversary tour.
The Ten Tenors now join an elite list of Keys to the City recipients, including The Bee Gees, Savage Garden, Red Frogs, the SES, Li Cunxin AO, and Australia’s Olympic and Paralympic teams.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner:
“The Ten Tenors are musical icons and proud Brisbane ambassadors, and I’m honoured to present them with the Keys to the City.
“For 30 years, they’ve shared Brisbane’s story on the world’s biggest stages, inspiring pride at home and showcasing our creative talent globally.
“From Queensland Conservatorium of Music students to international stars, their journey is one Brisbane is proud to share.”
Quotes attributed to producer of The Ten Tenors, D-J Wendt:
“The Ten Tenors are extremely proud to receive the Lord Mayor’s highest honour of recognition, the Keys to the City.
“It will be a fantastic moment shared by members from all eras of the group’s 30 years, recognising their contribution to the world of entertainment.
“I would very much like to thank the Honourable Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner for considering the work that we do as worthy of such a prestigious honour.
“We are in great company with other music acts that have received this honour, including The Bee Gees, Savage Garden and Powderfinger.
“It was a wonderful night.”
