This annual event is now so popular that it sells out to regular attendees as soon as bookings open in July the preceding year. But you can still waitlist and hope. More info and bookings
The 2023 Marathon TOGETHER allows the community to experience the electric outpouring of musical creativity from all over Melbourne during one extraordinary day. Seven concerts, individually crafted by Artistic Director, Wilma Smith, celebrate the Marathon’s ten-year history by featuring beloved works from past Marathons. These great works from the past are paired with great works of … Read more
A natural sense of adventure drives Collide so it’s fitting that this virtuosic trio of saxophone, cello and piano opens this brand new 3MBS Marathon. After a mesmerising encounter with the expressive guzheng (Chinese zither) of Mindy Meng Wang, enter the temple of Schubert’s incomparable String Quintet – to many, the greatest work of chamber … Read more
Chamber music royalty, Slava and Sharon Grigoryan may call Adelaide home but they are Melbournians of old and are welcomed back to open the second concert in the 2023 Marathon. From Bach’s arrangement of Marcello, travel forward to a selection of Bach’s Goldberg Variations as Bach never heard them alongside Joe Chindamo’s homage to Haydn … Read more
In the hands of David Griffiths with Artamidae Quartet, Mozart’s iconic Clarinet Quintet will scale expressive heights leading naturally to the communicative power of the human voice as magnificently displayed by the Consort of Melbourne. Finally, bouzouki virtuoso, Pantelis Krestas, and his band will captivate and inspire with the spirit of Greek Melbourne. Livestreamed on … Read more
Deborah Cheetham AO and Stefan Cassomenos ignite their joint creative chemistry especially for this concert with a set of songs including one of Deborah’s own. Wilma Smith joins them for Strauss’s poignantly beautiful Morgen. They pave the way for a Marathon highlight, a performance of Beethoven’s epic last piano sonata Op. 111 by Melbourne’s own … Read more
Opening with Arcadia Winds playing Ravel and the engaging Animalia by Australian composer, Natalie Williams, the concert then segues to the different and exquisitely expressive sound world of Melbourne veena master, Hari Sivanesan, and his Indian classical trio. No chamber music party is complete without the masterpiece written by the 16-year-old Felix Mendelssohn and this … Read more
Plexus is a hub of fizzing creativity, inspiring legions of composers. They’ve chosen to play a sensational piece by Brisbane’s Richard Grantham, commissioned for them by Melbourne’s Lyrebird Society. Quercus, another creative trio passionate about encouraging repertoire for their special combination of horn, violin and piano perform the prototype, the utterly masterful Horn Trio by … Read more
Firebird Trio brings to life the Spanish-flavoured fantasia by Cassadó, a work full of bravura and colour with spicy harmonies and catchy rhythms. Melbourne Chamber Orchestra directed by Sophie Rowell presents a fabulous program of luscious string music and an incredible day of celebration is wrapped up with Ensemble Anja & Zlatna in a program … Read more
After years of throwing her heart and soul into accompanying Melbourne’s top Certificate and University students, Edith Ellis has transferred all this passion into the highly collaborative and democratic Yarra Arts Trio. Joined by Anna Daniel and Shelley Heath, two outstanding teachers and musicians, this ensemble has wowed audiences with their unique style and presentation … Read more
Cellist Yelian He and pianist Yasmin Rowe present an evening of enchanting works for cello and piano. Y Squared has been the winning formula for Yelian He and Yasmin Rowe since 2008, a collaboration and discipline that allows them to explore the depth of communication between two artists on stage. A delightful evening championing the finest … Read more
The unparalleled classical string quartet repertoire of Invictus String Quartet, will resonate as you listen to its tunes for this years festival. From what started as a university elective, these artists connect us with contemporary composers to R&B and neo-soul music producers. A mix to be heard and or seen to be believed. Program: Joseph … Read more
Listen to Elyane Laussade, Luke Severn and Louise Turnbull for this wonderful evening of music. More info and bookings
Chant du Saxophone Tenor Niels Bijl will team up with Brian Chapman, in a program of timeless repertoire pieces: from Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata to Schumann’s Fantasiestucke. A beautiful selection of romantic masterpieces. More info and bookings
The ELISION Ensemble is a chamber ensemble specialising in contemporary classical music, concentrating on the creation and presentation of new works. The ensemble comprises a core of around 20 virtuoso musicians from Australia and around the world. For this concert the ensemble includes trombone, trumpet, harp, percussion, flute, double bass and recorder. More info and … Read more
In this recital Siobhan Stagg partners with long-time collaborator and acclaimed Australian pianist Timothy Young to traverse the beautiful terrain of French art song – a must-experience opportunity to hear Siobhan’s crystalline interpretations of works by Duparc and Messiaen, coupled with the Australian premiere of Kathleen Tagg’s compelling new work This Be Her Verse in the acoustic … Read more
The Muses’ Delight presens a program of intimate and challenging works that showcase a true musical dialogue between the flute and harpsichord. Towards the end of the Baroque period, many composers started to write obbligato sonatas. Obbligato sonatas are an exploration of the various styles of Baroque music and the emotional resonances of genres from … Read more
Ancient and early music’s most important value stems from its ability as a universal artistic language to transmit feelings, emotions and ancestral ideas that even today can enthrall the contemporary listener. Today Jordi Savall and Hespèrion XXI are central to the understanding of the music of the period between the Middle Ages and the Baroque, … Read more
Ancient and early music’s most important value stems from its ability as a universal artistic language to transmit feelings, emotions and ancestral ideas that even today can enthrall the contemporary listener. Today Jordi Savall and Hespèrion XXI are central to the understanding of the music of the period between the Middle Ages and the Baroque, … Read more
Music sparks emotion like nothing else; live music especially so. Here’s a concert with all the feelings: there’s loss, longing, love, and a bit of foot-stomping fandango flamboyance. Our guides into this other world are experts. Flinders Quartet is renowned for unpretentious brilliance, with two decades of experience in old music and new. Classical guitar is a … Read more
“Life Cycle” Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger Project, … Read more
TIME IS A RIVER The lifeblood of memory, music is the empowering tool through which composers pass on stories and honour the continuous flow of time. Franz Schubert’s stirring Death and the Maiden has long captured the imagination of audiences and mirrors the composer’s own inner turmoil with its thrilling climaxes, tortured freneticism, and darkly romantic … Read more
Music sparks emotion like nothing else; live music especially so. Here’s a concert with all the feelings: there’s loss, longing, love, and a bit of foot-stomping fandango flamboyance. Our guides into this other world are experts. Flinders Quartet is renowned for unpretentious brilliance, with two decades of experience in old music and new. Classical guitar is a … Read more
THE LEAF REMAINS Caerwen Martin and Ken Murray join forces as composer/performers in the Murray/Martin duo. In this recital program they explore new possibilities for the duo of cello and guitar, combining contemporary performance and composition with some improvisation. Musical influences include minimalism, popular music, folksongs and Brazilian music. This recital contains world premiere performances … Read more
TIME IS A RIVER The lifeblood of memory, music is the empowering tool through which composers pass on stories and honour the continuous flow of time. Franz Schubert’s stirring Death and the Maiden has long captured the imagination of audiences and mirrors the composer’s own inner turmoil with its thrilling climaxes, tortured freneticism, and darkly romantic … Read more
TIME IS A RIVER The lifeblood of memory, music is the empowering tool through which composers pass on stories and honour the continuous flow of time. Franz Schubert’s stirring Death and the Maiden has long captured the imagination of audiences and mirrors the composer’s own inner turmoil with its thrilling climaxes, tortured freneticism, and darkly romantic … Read more
SPANISH STEPS Few places in the world express inspiration and romance the way the Spanish Steps in Rome do, for centuries a meeting place for painters, musicians, poets and lovers. The world’s most famous staircase, at the base of the Piazza di Spagna in this spectacular concert starring the leading Canadian-American cellist Elinor Frey in … Read more
MAGIC, MIRACLES & MYSTERIES John Wilbye’s There is a jewel refers to a magic “which … makes men rich in greatest poverty, makes water wine, turns wooden cups to gold”. Orlando di Lasso’s Motet, Nuptiae factae sunt tells the story of what came to be known as Jesus’ first miracle – turning the water into wine at the … Read more
SPANISH STEPS Few places in the world express inspiration and romance the way the Spanish Steps in Rome do, for centuries a meeting place for painters, musicians, poets and lovers. The world’s most famous staircase, at the base of the Piazza di Spagna in this spectacular concert starring the leading Canadian-American cellist Elinor Frey in … Read more
LIFE CYCLE Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger Project, … Read more
SPANISH STEPS Few places in the world express inspiration and romance the way the Spanish Steps in Rome do, for centuries a meeting place for painters, musicians, poets and lovers. The world’s most famous staircase, at the base of the Piazza di Spagna in this spectacular concert starring the leading Canadian-American cellist Elinor Frey in … Read more
MOTIFS Quartz present enthralling works for the string quartet by Haydn and Ravel. Avidly regarded as the ‘Grandfather’ of the string quartet, Haydn was in his autumn years when he composed his final group of quartets. By this time, whilst drawing on his impressive catalogue of chamber works, Haydn was broadening his creative horizons. A … Read more
VIENNESE VOGUE Witness a musical revolution! In the late 1700s, Vienna was seized by enthusiasm for the clarinet. Mozart fell in love with the sound of this fashionable new instrument, considering it the closest to the human voice, especially in the hands of the brilliant virtuoso Anton Stadler. He was moved by Stadler and clarinet … Read more
After many successful recitals together in Europe, longtime friends, Svetlana Bogosavljević (cello) and Vladimir Milošević (piano) join forces for their first recital in Australia. They will present a program of Russian masterpieces, including Shostakovich’s Sonata for Cello and Piano. A work very dear to Svetlana, she performed it many times with her late Mother, Nada … Read more
For 50 years, Kronos Quartet has pursued a singular artistic vision, combining a spirit of fearless exploration with a commitment to continually reimagine the string quartet experience. In the process, the quartet – comprising David Harrington and John Sherba on violin, Hank Dutt on viola and cellist Paul Wiancko – has become one of the … Read more
SOUNDS LIKE ARABIA Tarab Ensemble present instrumental Arabic music at immense scale. The ensemble has evolved to be Australia’s largest group dedicated to instrumental classical Arabic music. Although the group was founded by multi-faith Arabic speaking musicians, the vision of the ensemble has expanded to encompass non-Arab musicians from Australia, Iran, Germany, Armenia and Venezuela. … Read more
WOVEN THREADS For her first orchestral concert as MCO’s artistic director, Sophie Rowell invites you to revel in the power and possibilities of the string orchestra. They start with the majesty and eloquence of Bach — a single strand of sound that unfolds into a miniature universe. And they end with Sophie as soloist, in … Read more
WOVEN THREADS For her first orchestral concert as MCO’s artistic director, Sophie Rowell invites you to revel in the power and possibilities of the string orchestra. They start with the majesty and eloquence of Bach — a single strand of sound that unfolds into a miniature universe. And they end with Sophie as soloist, in … Read more
Cello and Piano Recital featuring Richard Narroway and Jerry Wong This recital is presented as part of the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. All concerts in this series can also be streamed live via the Melbourne Conservatorium website. More info and bookings
The Consort of Melbourne are joined by viola player Aaron Wyatt in an unusual and intriguing combination of musical forces. Experience surpassingly beautiful choral works encompassing themes of loss, nostalgia, and joy, many of them by Australian composers. More info and bookings
This annual event is now so popular that it sells out to regular attendees as soon as bookings open in July the preceding year. But you can still waitlist and hope. More info and bookings
Chant du Saxophone Tenor Niels Bijl will team up with Brian Chapman, in a program of timeless repertoire pieces: from Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata to Schumann’s Fantasiestucke. A beautiful selection of romantic masterpieces. More info and bookings
MAGIC, MIRACLES & MYSTERIES John Wilbye’s There is a jewel refers to a magic “which … makes men rich in greatest poverty, makes water wine, turns wooden cups to gold”. Orlando di Lasso’s Motet, Nuptiae factae sunt tells the story of what came to be known as Jesus’ first miracle – turning the water into wine at the … Read more
LIFE CYCLE Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger Project, … Read more
INSPIRATIONS Three inspiring string quartets, inspired by the Classical tradition. Beethoven was surely inspired by Haydn, but could Haydn have been inspired by Beethoven? By the time Haydn wrote his Op 77, Beethoven was establishing himself as the formidable voice of his generation, not least as Haydn’s worthy successor in the field of string quartet … Read more
INSPIRATIONS Three inspiring string quartets, inspired by the Classical tradition. Beethoven was surely inspired by Haydn, but could Haydn have been inspired by Beethoven? By the time Haydn wrote his Op 77, Beethoven was establishing himself as the formidable voice of his generation, not least as Haydn’s worthy successor in the field of string quartet … Read more
INSPIRATIONS Three inspiring string quartets, inspired by the Classical tradition. Beethoven was surely inspired by Haydn, but could Haydn have been inspired by Beethoven? By the time Haydn wrote his Op 77, Beethoven was establishing himself as the formidable voice of his generation, not least as Haydn’s worthy successor in the field of string quartet … Read more
INSPIRATIONS Three inspiring string quartets, inspired by the Classical tradition. Beethoven was surely inspired by Haydn, but could Haydn have been inspired by Beethoven? By the time Haydn wrote his Op 77, Beethoven was establishing himself as the formidable voice of his generation, not least as Haydn’s worthy successor in the field of string quartet … Read more
INSPIRATIONS Three inspiring string quartets, inspired by the Classical tradition. Beethoven was surely inspired by Haydn, but could Haydn have been inspired by Beethoven? By the time Haydn wrote his Op 77, Beethoven was establishing himself as the formidable voice of his generation, not least as Haydn’s worthy successor in the field of string quartet … Read more
Mozart’s final work for choir and orchestra is a beloved masterpiece whose genesis is shrouded in mystery. The Australian Chamber Choir invites you into Mozart’s sound world, presenting this dramatic work with all its brilliant and varied colours. More info and bookings
FROM LITTLE THINGS… Flinders Quartet are joined by guest violinist Elizabeth Sellars. AMY BEACH String Quartet, Op. 89 ANNE CAWRSE “in spaces between” ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK String Quartet No. 13 in G major, Op.106 More info and bookings
FROM LITTLE THINGS… Flinders Quartet are joined by guest violinist Elizabeth Sellars. AMY BEACH String Quartet, Op. 89 ANNE CAWRSE “in spaces between” ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK String Quartet No. 13 in G major, Op.106 More info and bookings
TRANSFORMATIONS Music by two of the most-loved composers —Tchaikovsky and Mozart — revealed by the power of transformation. For this performance MCO musicians are playing a Tchaikovsky work originally for piano solo with a string quartet, and a Mozart piano concerto with the quartet and piano. They are joined by one of Australia’s most extraordinary … Read more
Sophie Gent – Baroque Violin Genesis Baroque welcomes back one of its most cherished guest artists, the stunning Australian ex-patriate violinist Sophie Gent, following her collaboration with the ensemble for its 2020 recording of Arcangelo Corelli’s Concerti Grossi. Gent returns to direct and solo with the ensemble in a sublime program of Johann Sebastian Bach’s works … Read more
KAMMERMUSIK As part of its 2023 Season, Genesis Baroque is launching a new series of performances, the Genesis Chamber Series. For the inaugural program in the series, Kammermusik, guest violinist Sophie Gent joins the ensemble in a program of instrumental music from the second half of the 17th century. Featuring composers from Bohemia, Germany and … Read more
SISTINE CHAPEL Allegri’s Miserere is perhaps the most famous piece of music written for the Sistine Chapel. This work is complemented by the music of Allegri’s predecessors. The Sistine Choir was a rich melting pot of Europe’s musical talent. Orlando Lassus from Belgium, Josquin des Prez from France and Tomás Luis de Victoria from Spain sang alongside … Read more
KAMMERMUSIK As part of its 2023 Season, Genesis Baroque is launching a new series of performances, the Genesis Chamber Series. For the inaugural program in the series, Kammermusik, guest violinist Sophie Gent joins the ensemble in a program of instrumental music from the second half of the 17th century. Featuring composers from Bohemia, Germany and … Read more
SISTINE CHAPEL Allegri’s Miserere is perhaps the most famous piece of music written for the Sistine Chapel. This work is complemented by the music of Allegri’s predecessors. The Sistine Choir was a rich melting pot of Europe’s musical talent. Orlando Lassus from Belgium, Josquin des Prez from France and Tomás Luis de Victoria from Spain sang alongside … Read more
DUMKY When Laurence Matheson and Matthias Balzat met in February 2020 to play trio concerts for Wilma & Friends, they hit it off instantly, both musically and personally. We decided to play more together and the Argyle Trio was born. However, a pandemic intervened to keep us on opposite sides of the planet until these … Read more
“The Year 1897” Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger … Read more
MUSICAL PORTRAITS Shostakovich’s incredibly powerful String Quartet No.8 was officially dedicated ‘to the memory of the victims of fascism and war’ but there is much to suggest that Shostakovich meant it as a musical self-portrait. Smetana’s String Quartet No.1 ‘From My Life’ is a different type of musical portrait, taking us on a vivid, programmatic … Read more
BUCKINGHAM PALACE The Australian Chamber Choir presents marvellous music from the coronations, the funerals and the weddings of the British royal family. Parry’s I was glad and Vaughan Williams’ Lord thou hast been our refuge are pillars in a program that showcases the best English choral music from the last five centuries, including selections from Britten, Byrd, Dyson, … Read more
BUCKINGHAM PALACE The Australian Chamber Choir presents marvellous music from the coronations, the funerals and the weddings of the British royal family. Parry’s I was glad and Vaughan Williams’ Lord thou hast been our refuge are pillars in a program that showcases the best English choral music from the last five centuries, including selections from Britten, Byrd, Dyson, … Read more
BUCKINGHAM PALACE The Australian Chamber Choir presents marvellous music from the coronations, the funerals and the weddings of the British royal family. Parry’s I was glad and Vaughan Williams’ Lord thou hast been our refuge are pillars in a program that showcases the best English choral music from the last five centuries, including selections from Britten, Byrd, Dyson, … Read more
“A German Romance” Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger … Read more
For the final program of the year, Genesis Chamber Series presents two pinnacles of the Classical chamber music canon for wind and strings. Mozart’s graceful quintet for horn and strings (1782), is unusually scored for one violin, two violas, cello, and horn, producing a work that rejoices in the rich alto register of the horn, performed … Read more
For the final program of the year, Genesis Chamber Series presents two pinnacles of the Classical chamber music canon for wind and strings. Mozart’s graceful quintet for horn and strings (1782), is unusually scored for one violin, two violas, cello, and horn, producing a work that rejoices in the rich alto register of the horn, performed … Read more
BAROQUE CHRISTMAS In this fabulously entertaining hour of music for the Christmas season, the ACC8 treats you to a historical ‘pick of the pops’, from the late 1400s to the end of the Baroque period and beyond, including works from their Baroque Christmas CD. The possibilities are endless, so the program will be strikingly different from … Read more
BAROQUE CHRISTMAS In this fabulously entertaining hour of music for the Christmas season, the ACC8 treats you to a historical ‘pick of the pops’, from the late 1400s to the end of the Baroque period and beyond, including works from their Baroque Christmas CD. The possibilities are endless, so the program will be strikingly different from … Read more
BAROQUE CHRISTMAS In this fabulously entertaining hour of music for the Christmas season, the ACC8 treats you to a historical ‘pick of the pops’, from the late 1400s to the end of the Baroque period and beyond, including works from their Baroque Christmas CD. The possibilities are endless, so the program will be strikingly different from … Read more
After years of throwing her heart and soul into accompanying Melbourne’s top Certificate and University students, Edith Ellis has transferred all this passion into the highly collaborative and democratic Yarra Arts Trio. Joined by Anna Daniel and Shelley Heath, two outstanding teachers and musicians, this ensemble has wowed audiences with their unique style and presentation … Read more
Cellist Yelian He and pianist Yasmin Rowe present an evening of enchanting works for cello and piano. Y Squared has been the winning formula for Yelian He and Yasmin Rowe since 2008, a collaboration and discipline that allows them to explore the depth of communication between two artists on stage. A delightful evening championing the finest … Read more
The unparalleled classical string quartet repertoire of Invictus String Quartet, will resonate as you listen to its tunes for this years festival. From what started as a university elective, these artists connect us with contemporary composers to R&B and neo-soul music producers. A mix to be heard and or seen to be believed. Program: Joseph … Read more
Listen to Elyane Laussade, Luke Severn and Louise Turnbull for this wonderful evening of music. More info and bookings
Chant du Saxophone Tenor Niels Bijl will team up with Brian Chapman, in a program of timeless repertoire pieces: from Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata to Schumann’s Fantasiestucke. A beautiful selection of romantic masterpieces. More info and bookings
The ELISION Ensemble is a chamber ensemble specialising in contemporary classical music, concentrating on the creation and presentation of new works. The ensemble comprises a core of around 20 virtuoso musicians from Australia and around the world. For this concert the ensemble includes trombone, trumpet, harp, percussion, flute, double bass and recorder. More info and … Read more
The Muses’ Delight presens a program of intimate and challenging works that showcase a true musical dialogue between the flute and harpsichord. Towards the end of the Baroque period, many composers started to write obbligato sonatas. Obbligato sonatas are an exploration of the various styles of Baroque music and the emotional resonances of genres from … Read more
“Life Cycle” Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger Project, … Read more
THE LEAF REMAINS Caerwen Martin and Ken Murray join forces as composer/performers in the Murray/Martin duo. In this recital program they explore new possibilities for the duo of cello and guitar, combining contemporary performance and composition with some improvisation. Musical influences include minimalism, popular music, folksongs and Brazilian music. This recital contains world premiere performances … Read more
MAGIC, MIRACLES & MYSTERIES John Wilbye’s There is a jewel refers to a magic “which … makes men rich in greatest poverty, makes water wine, turns wooden cups to gold”. Orlando di Lasso’s Motet, Nuptiae factae sunt tells the story of what came to be known as Jesus’ first miracle – turning the water into wine at the … Read more
LIFE CYCLE Trio Anima Mundi celebrates its fifteenth year with their continued Piano Trio Archaeology mission of presenting rarely-heard works from the piano trio repertoire. In 2023 they will rediscover Belgian composer Joseph Jongen’s passionate Op.10 Trio, reimagine Carl Maria von Weber’s Invitation to the Dance for three players, and continue their mammoth The Reissiger Project, … Read more
MOTIFS Quartz present enthralling works for the string quartet by Haydn and Ravel. Avidly regarded as the ‘Grandfather’ of the string quartet, Haydn was in his autumn years when he composed his final group of quartets. By this time, whilst drawing on his impressive catalogue of chamber works, Haydn was broadening his creative horizons. A … Read more
After many successful recitals together in Europe, longtime friends, Svetlana Bogosavljević (cello) and Vladimir Milošević (piano) join forces for their first recital in Australia. They will present a program of Russian masterpieces, including Shostakovich’s Sonata for Cello and Piano. A work very dear to Svetlana, she performed it many times with her late Mother, Nada … Read more
SOUNDS LIKE ARABIA Tarab Ensemble present instrumental Arabic music at immense scale. The ensemble has evolved to be Australia’s largest group dedicated to instrumental classical Arabic music. Although the group was founded by multi-faith Arabic speaking musicians, the vision of the ensemble has expanded to encompass non-Arab musicians from Australia, Iran, Germany, Armenia and Venezuela. … Read more
Cello and Piano Recital featuring Richard Narroway and Jerry Wong This recital is presented as part of the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. All concerts in this series can also be streamed live via the Melbourne Conservatorium website. More info and bookings
The Consort of Melbourne are joined by viola player Aaron Wyatt in an unusual and intriguing combination of musical forces. Experience surpassingly beautiful choral works encompassing themes of loss, nostalgia, and joy, many of them by Australian composers. More info and bookings
Lyrebird Brass presents a program consisting of favourites from the brass quintet literature alongside newer works that are sure to become staples of the repertoire. More info and bookings
This concert presents major works from J.S. Bach, J.C. Bach, C.P.E. Bach and Princess Anna Amalia. Reinventing their virtuosity and lyricism, Duo Eclettico present the world premiere of these arrangements for saxophone and piano. The daughter of Frederick William I, Princess Anna Amalia of Prussia was a superb composer and writer and was Carl Philipp … Read more
ADCH FESTIVAL WEEKEND 1 – TO THE POWER OF 2 – CONCERT 4 Artists: Australian Haydn Ensemble: Skye McIntosh – Violin Anna McMichael – Violin Karina Schmitz – Viola Martin Penicka – Cello Melissa Farrow – Flute PROGRAM: Mozart – Flute Quartet No. 1 in D Major K. 285 Haydn – Symphony No. 104 ‘London’ … Read more
This delightful program reveals a fascinating world of the past, where music is a mirror of other art forms, ancient cultures and history. The program features Neo-Baroque works – the sophisticated and ironic Schnittke’s Suite in the Old Style and Stravinsky’s Suite Italienne, derived from the ballet Pulcinella, which was inspired by the 18th-century commedia dell’arte. The unique violin … Read more
A CROWN OF DREAMS Songmakers Australia present passionate works from Wagner and Berg. Love is the greatest inspiration for poetry and songs. ‘To the Angel who has lifted me so high’ – with those words Wagner dedicated his only song cycle to his muse, poetess and paramour, Mathilde Wesendonk. Berg’s Seven Early Songs were also inspired by … Read more
These two string quintets by Mendelssohn and Brahms are every string player’s dream to play. The richness and warmth of the two-viola quintet medium is fully exploited by both of these masters and to have some of Australia’s most sought-after chamber musicians – who also happen to be great friends -coming together to play these … Read more
These two string quintets by Mendelssohn and Brahms are every string player’s dream to play. The richness and warmth of the two-viola quintet medium is fully exploited by both of these masters and to have some of Australia’s most sought-after chamber musicians – who also happen to be great friends -coming together to play these … Read more
Classical guitarist Nathan Sinclair presents a program of exclusively works by the Spanish composer, Joaquin Rodrigo. These works are the focus of the performance-led research undertaken by Nathan at the Conservatorium as well as being the subject of a new book by eminent Rodrigo scholars, Javier Suarez-Pajares and Walter Aaron-Clarke. The culmination of Nathan’s 30 … Read more
Founded in 2022, the Australian Wind Quintet is a Melbourne-based group specialising in presenting twenty-first century Australian compositions by composers such as Elliott Gyger, Elizabeth Younan, Cathy Likhuta and Paul Dean alongside standard canonic repertoire. The program opens with Ligeti’s explosive Six Bagatelles, exploiting the extreme dynamics and expressively lyrical qualities of both the whole … Read more
Before music became a practice in the homes of connoisseurs and skilled amateurs during the 18th century, it occupied a more exclusive domain. In the Renaissance and Baroque, sounds of beauty, elevation and piety were created at enlightened courts and churches. The ANAM musicians armoured with modern instruments and awareness of all the music created ever since, explore places such as Elizabethan England … Read more
Ensemble Liaison are local favourites, beloved for their technical brilliance and the palpable joy they emit onstage. Those qualities will be on ample display in their appearance for Viva Edge, highlights of which include Weber’s demanding showcase for clarinet and piano and Schumann’s impossibly tender Adagio and Allegro. More info and bookings
BETWEEN EARTH AND SKY Ensemble 642 invite the listener to experience the emotion, virtuosity and vitality of secular and sacred vocal music of the early Italian Baroque, which, hundreds of years later, still has the power to enthrall and delight. At the turn of the 17th century, newfound approaches to musical expression exploded into every … Read more
THE STRADIVARI OF THE BASSOON The Parisian bassoonist and instrument maker Jean-Nicolas Savary jeune (1786 – 1853) is a particularly interesting figure in the world of historical bassoons. His instruments became so popular that in 1891, Charles Russell Day posthumously declared Savary jeune to be the Stradivari of the bassoon, lauding the Savary bassoon’s “peculiar … Read more
Suites for Guitar showcases the beauty and vitality of guitars in concert, playing suites from Brazil, France and Australia. The arrangement of Mauricio Carrilho’s Suite for guitar and orchestra is an integral part of Max Rudd’s PhD in performance thesis. Ravel’s Danses Nobles et Sentimentales arranged by Doug de Vries is to be recorded by de Vries and Murray … Read more
WORLD PREMIERE The Faculty of Fine Arts and Music proudly presents the world premiere of Stuart Greenbaum’s Tuba Sonata. This recital is presented as part of the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. All concerts in this series can also be streamed live via the Melbourne Conservatorium website. More info and bookings
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME! Long-time collaborators, pianist Donna Coleman and harpist Jacinta Dennett are Pleione 11; they explore the notion of home in this program that features a premiere by Australian composer Eve Duncan. The program title There’s no place like home! evokes the 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz and the image of Dorothy clicking together the … Read more
FREI ABER EINSAM: A SALUTE TO VIOLINIST JOSEPH JOACHIM Join us for a violin and piano recital in the stunning surrounds of the Hanson Dyer Hall. Written for the great violinist Joseph Joachim, the three pieces in this program feature works by composers in the circle of Johannes Brahms including Clara Schumann, Robert Schumann and … Read more
MUSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE A colourful mix of musical genres is familiar territory for Duo Chamber Melange. There is only one word that encapsulates the essence of this concert — kaleidoscopic. Journey from the Classical nationalism of rarely played Czech composer Fibich, through the vivid and energetic works by 20th-century women composers Lili Boulanger and Margaret Sutherland … Read more
In the spirit of the Classical orators, Chad Kelly and Josephine Vains place rhetoric and the connection with audience at the centre of their music-making. Through performing the F Major Sonata with harpsichord and historical cello, this program sheds new light on the relationship between keyboard and cello at the cusp of the 19th century, … Read more
Echoes and Orbits is a playful program featuring upbeat and eclectic works for percussion and cello. Spanning the latest decade – a period where pop culture and classical music have converged more than ever – the pieces reflect the energetic time in which we live, but also gives us space to be still More info … Read more
A duo recital featuring decorated University of Melbourne alumna and now London-based mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean with pianist Stewart Kelly. Reigniting a partnership that is more than a decade long, Ms Betts-Dean and Mr Kelly return to the Conservatorium as part of our Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. Lotte and Stewart first performed together in … Read more
CHILD’S PLAY Nexas Quartet are committed to sharing the musical diversity of the saxophone, showcasing its versatility and ability to cross genre boundaries. Their performance in Primrose Potter Salon presents repertoire inspired by the joy and fun of childhood. Featuring masterpieces by Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, Chick Corea and Australian Tomasz Spiewak, Nexas Quartet have … Read more
RACHMANINOFF FOR TWO PIANOS Rachmaninoff was one of the most formative pianists of the 20th century, both in his pianism and compositional output. This year marks his 150th birthday and is therefore cause for celebration! This concert presents some of Rachmaninoff’s finest smaller scale solo piano works as well as his emphatic Symphonic Dances – … Read more
The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music presents the finalists of the 2023 Conservatorium Chamber Music Competition. Current students have the opportunity each year to form a small ensemble with their peers, and perform a work of their choice in the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. More info and bookings
A natural sense of adventure drives Collide so it’s fitting that this virtuosic trio of saxophone, cello and piano opens this brand new 3MBS Marathon. After a mesmerising encounter with the expressive guzheng (Chinese zither) of Mindy Meng Wang, enter the temple of Schubert’s incomparable String Quintet – to many, the greatest work of chamber … Read more
In the hands of David Griffiths with Artamidae Quartet, Mozart’s iconic Clarinet Quintet will scale expressive heights leading naturally to the communicative power of the human voice as magnificently displayed by the Consort of Melbourne. Finally, bouzouki virtuoso, Pantelis Krestas, and his band will captivate and inspire with the spirit of Greek Melbourne. Livestreamed on … Read more
Opening with Arcadia Winds playing Ravel and the engaging Animalia by Australian composer, Natalie Williams, the concert then segues to the different and exquisitely expressive sound world of Melbourne veena master, Hari Sivanesan, and his Indian classical trio. No chamber music party is complete without the masterpiece written by the 16-year-old Felix Mendelssohn and this … Read more
Firebird Trio brings to life the Spanish-flavoured fantasia by Cassadó, a work full of bravura and colour with spicy harmonies and catchy rhythms. Melbourne Chamber Orchestra directed by Sophie Rowell presents a fabulous program of luscious string music and an incredible day of celebration is wrapped up with Ensemble Anja & Zlatna in a program … Read more
WOVEN THREADS For her first orchestral concert as MCO’s artistic director, Sophie Rowell invites you to revel in the power and possibilities of the string orchestra. They start with the majesty and eloquence of Bach — a single strand of sound that unfolds into a miniature universe. And they end with Sophie as soloist, in … Read more
Cello and Piano Recital featuring Richard Narroway and Jerry Wong This recital is presented as part of the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. All concerts in this series can also be streamed live via the Melbourne Conservatorium website. More info and bookings
ADCH FESTIVAL WEEKEND 1: CONCERT 1 – OPENING GALA ARTISTS Anna Goldsworthy – Piano Timothy Young – Piano Sara Macliver – Soprano Sophie Rowell – Violin Chris Moore – Viola Michelle Wood – Cello Emma Sullivan – Double Bass PROGRAM Mendelssohn – Piano Trio in C Minor MWV Q3 (Anna, Sophie, Chris) Selection of works … Read more
ADCH FESTIVAL WEEKEND 1 – TO THE POWER OF 2 – CONCERT 3 INSPIRATIONS Three inspiring string quartets, inspired by the Classical tradition. Beethoven was surely inspired by Haydn, but could Haydn have been inspired by Beethoven? By the time Haydn wrote his Op 77, Beethoven was establishing himself as the formidable voice of his … Read more
MAGIC, MIRACLES & MYSTERIES John Wilbye’s There is a jewel refers to a magic “which … makes men rich in greatest poverty, makes water wine, turns wooden cups to gold”. Orlando di Lasso’s Motet, Nuptiae factae sunt tells the story of what came to be known as Jesus’ first miracle – turning the water into wine at the marriage … Read more
ADCH FESTIVAL WEEKEND 1 – TO THE POWER OF 2 – CONCERT 4 Artists: Australian Haydn Ensemble: Skye McIntosh – Violin Anna McMichael – Violin Karina Schmitz – Viola Martin Penicka – Cello Melissa Farrow – Flute PROGRAM: Mozart – Flute Quartet No. 1 in D Major K. 285 Haydn – Symphony No. 104 ‘London’ … Read more
This delightful program reveals a fascinating world of the past, where music is a mirror of other art forms, ancient cultures and history. The program features Neo-Baroque works – the sophisticated and ironic Schnittke’s Suite in the Old Style and Stravinsky’s Suite Italienne, derived from the ballet Pulcinella, which was inspired by the 18th-century commedia dell’arte. The unique violin … Read more
Classical guitarist Nathan Sinclair presents a program of exclusively works by the Spanish composer, Joaquin Rodrigo. These works are the focus of the performance-led research undertaken by Nathan at the Conservatorium as well as being the subject of a new book by eminent Rodrigo scholars, Javier Suarez-Pajares and Walter Aaron-Clarke. The culmination of Nathan’s 30 … Read more
THE STRADIVARI OF THE BASSOON The Parisian bassoonist and instrument maker Jean-Nicolas Savary jeune (1786 – 1853) is a particularly interesting figure in the world of historical bassoons. His instruments became so popular that in 1891, Charles Russell Day posthumously declared Savary jeune to be the Stradivari of the bassoon, lauding the Savary bassoon’s “peculiar … Read more
WORLD PREMIERE The Faculty of Fine Arts and Music proudly presents the world premiere of Stuart Greenbaum’s Tuba Sonata. This recital is presented as part of the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. All concerts in this series can also be streamed live via the Melbourne Conservatorium website. More info and bookings
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME! Long-time collaborators, pianist Donna Coleman and harpist Jacinta Dennett are Pleione 11; they explore the notion of home in this program that features a premiere by Australian composer Eve Duncan. The program title There’s no place like home! evokes the 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz and the image of Dorothy clicking together the … Read more
MUSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE A colourful mix of musical genres is familiar territory for Duo Chamber Melange. There is only one word that encapsulates the essence of this concert — kaleidoscopic. Journey from the Classical nationalism of rarely played Czech composer Fibich, through the vivid and energetic works by 20th-century women composers Lili Boulanger and Margaret Sutherland … Read more
A duo recital featuring decorated University of Melbourne alumna and now London-based mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean with pianist Stewart Kelly. Reigniting a partnership that is more than a decade long, Ms Betts-Dean and Mr Kelly return to the Conservatorium as part of our Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. Lotte and Stewart first performed together in … Read more
The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music presents the finalists of the 2023 Conservatorium Chamber Music Competition. Current students have the opportunity each year to form a small ensemble with their peers, and perform a work of their choice in the Melba Hall Lunch Hour Concert Series. More info and bookings
ADCH FESTIVAL WEEKEND 2 – OPENING GALA Works for duo pianists by Elena Kats-Chernin, played by Elena and Tamara-Anna Cislowska. Livestreamed on ADCH. PROGRAM Rotor Bird on the Bench Dance of the Paper Umbrellas Butterflying Re-Inventions 1 Musk Tiger Cub Marcato Eggshell Eliza Aria Scherzino More info and bookings
ADCH FESTIVAL WEEKEND 2 – CONCERT 2 Works for duo pianists played by Stephen McIntyre and Stefan Cassomenos. Livestreamed on ADCH. PROGRAM Ravel – Ma mère l’Oye Rachmaninoff – Selections from the Suites for Two Pianos Debussy – Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune Ravel – La valse More info and bookings
Flinders Quartet are joined by guest violinist Elizabeth Sellars. AMY BEACH String Quartet, Op. 89 ANNE CAWRSE “in spaces between” ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK String Quartet No. 13 in G major, Op.106 Filmed in Primrose Potter Salon. Free to watch once. Subscribe to FQ digital to watch on demand. Create an FQ Digital account to do either. … Read more
“The chance to play one of Beethoven’s incomparable Op. 59 Razumovsky quartets, named after their commissioner, Count Razumovsky, the Russian Ambassador in Vienna, is something akin to a religious experience for quartet players, such is the consummate artistry of Beethoven in his middle period. I’m excited to pair Maconchy’s Quartet No. 5 with Beethoven’s Opus 59. … Read more
SISTINE CHAPEL Allegri’s Miserere is perhaps the most famous piece of music written for the Sistine Chapel. This work is complemented by the music of Allegri’s predecessors. The Sistine Choir was a rich melting pot of Europe’s musical talent. Orlando Lassus from Belgium, Josquin des Prez from France and Tomás Luis de Victoria from Spain sang alongside … Read more
Ensemble Liaison welcome internationally award-winning guitarist Campbell Diamond for a unique program of arrangements and original works for guitar and chamber ensemble. Originally from Canberra, Campbell has won prizes in over 30 international competitions and has performed across Asia, South America, Australia and Europe where he is Professor of Guitar at the Anton Bruckner University of … Read more
MOZART & BEETHOVEN CONCERTOS In 1787, a 17-year-old Beethoven made the journey from Bonn to Vienna—further than Melbourne to Sydney. Did he meet the 30-year-old Mozart, in the few weeks they were in the same city? Was there a metaphorical handing over of the baton of Classical music? Escape with us to this bright, elegant … Read more
For their final concert of the year, Ensemble Liaison is excited to collaborate with the newly formed Australian Wind Quintet. Combining some of Australia’s leading wind players, including Ensemble Liaison’s own David Griffiths, the AWQ made their debut at the 2022 Adelaide Festival receiving critical praise for their ‘precision, nuanced sensitive phrasing and captivating performance’. This program … Read more
MUSICAL PORTRAITS Shostakovich’s incredibly powerful String Quartet No.8 was officially dedicated ‘to the memory of the victims of fascism and war’ but there is much to suggest that Shostakovich meant it as a musical self-portrait. Smetana’s String Quartet No.1 ‘From My Life’ is a different type of musical portrait, taking us on a vivid, programmatic … Read more
BAROQUE CHRISTMAS In this fabulously entertaining hour of music for the Christmas season, the ACC8 treats you to a historical ‘pick of the pops’, from the late 1400s to the end of the Baroque period and beyond, including works from their Baroque Christmas CD. The possibilities are endless, so the program will be strikingly different from … Read more