The Abbotsford Convent will come to life with classical music this spring, thanks to the return of Music in the Round on Sunday 24 September 2017. A favourite on the annual classical music calendar, this day-long program provides a rare opportunity to hear preeminent classical musicians perform intimate concerts in the Abbotsford Convent’s stunning spaces.
Artistic Director Chris Howlett said this year’s program delivers Australian and contemporary works alongside festival classics. “Music in the Round 2017 sees the return of preeminent musicians, including William Hennessy, Ian Munro and Arcadia Winds, alongside luminary musicians making their Music in the Round debut, including Sophie Rowell, Julian Smiles, Stefan Cassomenos and Anna Goldsworthy,” said Howlett.
“From Mozart and Mendelssohn, to Brahms and Bach, audiences can curate their own concert experience, with the stunning spaces of the Abbotsford Convent providing the perfect backdrop to outstanding performances.”
The program also includes a free outdoor performance by renowned Melbourne pianist and composer, Rose Alea, for all visitors to the Convent to enjoy. INTERLUDE encourages the audience to lie down to enjoy meditative and echoing soundscapes, including Alea’s original works, and works by neo-classical composers such as Max Richter and Nils Frahm. Alea’s performance aims to provide a moment for introspection, silence and rest – a break from the madness of the world.
Children are also invited to explore their creativity, with a free classical music concert thanks to esteemed musical education group, PATMA. Following a sold out international tour, Draw and Listen – The Ultimate Learning Concert sees legendary painter and narrator ‘Monet’ guide children to draw what they here, as musicians perform classical music favourites.
Abbotsford Convent Foundation CEO, Collette Brennan, said the free outdoor component of Music in the Round provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy classical music in a relaxed environment.
“Music in the Round provides an accessible way for diverse audiences to experience classical music, with our complimentary outdoor program catering for children through to adults of all ages wishing to enjoy beautiful music in our stunning surrounds,” said Brennan.
“We’re delighted to share an exciting program of classical music with lovers of this genre, as well as those who have had little or no experience of classical music over one big day at the Convent.”
Music in the Round 2017
Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford
Event: Sunday 24 September 2017: 11.00am – 5.45pm
Bookings: www.melbournerecital.com.au
For more information and full program, visit: www.abbotsfordconvent.com.au for details
Image: Arcadia Winds – photo by Keith Saunders