Following on from the success of last year’s program, which marked Abbotsford Convent’s 10th anniversary, Music in the Round brings a perfect sampling of the masters to the picturesque surrounds of the Convent this Sunday 6 September 2015.
“Following the success of the relaunch of the iconic and much loved festival in 2014, I am thrilled that we are able to move forward and present the second year,” says Artistic Director Chris Howlett. “The programming continues to be an exciting mix in the repertoire, a strong nod towards contemporary Australian works but also a focus on finding lesser known gems of major composers.”
Presented by the Abbotsford Convent Foundation, Music in the Round will see 15 of Australia’s most renowned chamber musicians playing intimate shows in the Convent’s historic venues; including the award-winning Good Shepherd Chapel, the beautifully restored Oratory and the seldom seen black and white tiled Mural Hall.
This year, Australia’s leading harpist Marshall McGuire returns with a program combining the modern and Baroque composers. Legendary organist/composer Calvin Bowman also makes a return, performing a series of contemporary Australian works alongside those by JS Bach.
Paul Dean joins pianist Stephen Emmerson for a program of rare works from the 20th century. Esteemed Australian violinist William Hennessy and renowned pianist Louisa Breen will present a program of Mozart and Brahms, and Ensemble Liaison will perform tango-inspired Argentinian composer Piazzolla.
For piano lovers, one of Australia’s strongest forces at the keyboard Daniel de Borah and rising talent Tristan Lee will perform solo recitals featuring works by Prokofiev, Beethoven and Liszt.
In the intimate Mural Hall, audiences will be treated to serene string performances, featuring musicians Kristian Winther, Ioana Tache and Daniel Curro, performing a program of string duos and trios followed solo cello works by Christopher Howlett. A series of talks will complement the music program with a very special lecture by celebrated cellist Howard Penny.
Along with this esteemed line up, there will also be free jazz in the heritage gardens throughout the day and free children’s concerts with Patma Music – making it a fun-filled day for all ages.
Music in the Round
Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford
Event: Sunday 6 September 2015: 11.00am – 5.30pm
Bookings: (03) 9699 3333 or online at: www.melbournerecital.com.au
For more information, visit: www.abbotsfordconvent.com.au for details.
Image: Marshall McGuire