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

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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, bold, and full of life.”

“I’m so excited for audiences to experience this program — it feels alive with energy and connection,” said Sophie Rowell, Artistic Director of Melbourne Chamber Orchestra.

“At its heart, Nightingale is a conversation between eras, weaving the music of today with the enduring beauty of Bach and Corelli. From Donald Nicolson’s electric presence at the keyboard to the world premiere of Melody Eötvös’ luminous new work, this concert celebrates our artistry and imagination. There’s something magical about hearing how these worlds speak to one another — how contemporary voices can illuminate the past, and how the timeless grace of baroque music continues to inspire us now.

“It’s also a special moment for us to honour our wonderful Emma Sullivan, whose musicality and warmth have been at the core of our ensemble. This concert is a joyful meeting of past and present and the perfect send-off to what has been a fabulous year of music-making for MCO.”

Alongside Bach, the program features Baroque treasures including Corelli’s Concerto Grosso and a sonorous highlight from MCO’s own Emma Sullivan, who performs one of the most celebrated double bass sonatas of the era. The concert also embraces the modern with Colin Brumby’s rarely heard gem and a brand-new commission by Melody Eötvös, marking a thrilling new collaboration between one of Australia’s most imaginative composers and MCO.

Audiences in Pakenham, Melbourne, and Geelong will have the chance to experience MCO’s hallmark warmth and finesse in this dynamic concert series.

Performance Details
 • PAKENHAM – Wednesday 19 November 2025, 10:00am – Cardinia Cultural Centre
 • MELBOURNE – Thursday 20 November 2025, 7:30pm – Melbourne Recital Centre
 • GEELONG – Friday 21 November 2025, 7:30pm – McAuley Hall, Sacred Heart College
 • MELBOURNE – Sunday 23 November 2025, 2:30pm – Melbourne Recital Centre

Tickets: mco.org.au/whats-on/nightingale

About Melbourne Chamber Orchestra
Directed by celebrated Australian violinist and concertmaster Sophie Rowell, the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra is Victoria’s leading professional chamber ensemble — offering a fresh, vibrant, and intimate approach to orchestral performance.

In more than 70 performances each season, MCO brings Australia’s finest musicians together in inspiring programs of uncompromising artistic quality, finesse, and passion. Its mainstage season is presented at Melbourne Recital Centre and broadcast on ABC Classic, alongside touring, education, and outreach programs that reach communities across Victoria and beyond.

mco.org.au

MEDIA/REVIEW tickets available for all performances.

Media Contact: Samuel Cairnduff
RESONATE Communications
samuel.j.cairnduff@gmail.com | 0401 396 755

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