Posts

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra presents Under the Canopy

-
Image
  MEDIA RELEASE June 2026 Melbourne Chamber Orchestra presents Under the Canopy MCO joins accordion virtuoso James Crabb in a vivid musical journey through sound, land and story From 9–12 July 2026 , Melbourne Chamber Orchestra presents Under the Canopy , a striking orchestral program featuring internationally renowned classical accordionist James Crabb . Performed in Melbourne, Ballarat and Werribee, Under the Canopy showcases the expressive possibilities of the classical accordion in a program that moves across time, place and tradition. Renowned for his electrifying stage presence and interpretive depth, Crabb brings his distinctive artistry to works by Jean-Philippe Rameau, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Tomás Gubitsch, Scottish traditional music, and Australian composer Aaron Wyatt. MCO Artistic Director Sophie Rowell said Crabb brings a rare combination of virtuosity, warmth and imagination to the stage. “Working with James Crabb is always a joy. He is one of those rare music...
Post a Comment
Read more

MEDIA RELEASE: Champeta AfroFest Melbourne 2025 brings the beat of Afro-Caribbean culture to North Melbourne

-
Image
MEDIA RELEASE 11 November, 2025 Champeta AfroFest Melbourne 2025 brings the beat of Afro-Caribbean culture to North Melbourne The vibrant sounds, rhythms, and colours of Colombia come alive this weekend as Champeta AfroFest Melbourne 2025 transforms the Meat Market in North Melbourne into a celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture, dance, and community connection. The festival invites Melburnians to experience the infectious joy of champeta — a dance and music style rooted in the Afro-Colombian communities of Cartagena — alongside a full day of performances, workshops, talks, and family activities. From 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m . on Saturday, 15 November , the festival will feature live music, dance classes, cultural discussions, traditional food stalls, and a bustling minimarket showcasing local and Latinx creatives. Special guests Kaiman Jiménez and Kobra 3000 will headline the evening program, bringing authentic Afro-Colombian sounds and energy to the stage. “Champeta AfroFest is a...
Post a Comment
Read more

MEDIA RELEASE: Jayson Gillham’s Federal Court Case Delayed Six Months as MSO Expands Defence

-
Image
MEDIA RELEASE 11 November, 2025 Jayson Gillham’s Federal Court Case Delayed Six Months as MSO Expands Defence The Federal Court has confirmed that Jayson Gillham’s case against the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has been delayed by six months and expanded from one to three weeks, following the MSO’s decision to call more than twenty witnesses, including senior board members, executives, and advisors. The hearing is now scheduled to begin in the Federal Court on 18 May 2026 and is expected to run for three weeks. The delay and expansion were not sought by Gillham and result entirely from the MSO’s legal strategy. Gillham is suing the MSO for discrimination on the basis of political belief, after it cancelled his performance in August 2024 following remarks he made in his concert introduction, in which he referred to the targeted killing of Palestinian journalists and provided context for the music he was about to perform. He also claims that a subsequent public statement by the MSO defa...
Post a Comment
Read more

MEDIA RELEASE: Melbourne Chamber Orchestra presents Nightingale – Baroque and modern treasures in an explosion of colour and energy

-
Image
MEDIA RELEASE November 5, 2025 Melbourne Chamber Orchestra presents Nightingale – Baroque and modern treasures in an explosion of colour and energy Melbourne Chamber Orchestra (MCO) returns to the stage this November with Nightingale — a vibrant program where Baroque elegance meets modern brilliance. This kaleidoscopic concert celebrates the expressive power of MCO’s musicians and the diversity of instruments that bring their artistry to life. Harpsichordist Donald Nicolson brings his trademark energy and radiant musicality to centre stage, directing the ensemble from the keyboard and performing as soloist in Bach’s Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Harpsichord and Strings , a virtuosic cornerstone of the repertoire. “This is music that leaps off the page,” says Donald Nicolson . “From the precision and beauty of Bach to the exuberant colours of contemporary Melbourne composer Melody Eötvös, this program revels in connection — between musicians, centuries, and audiences. It’s joyful, bo...
Post a Comment
Read more