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News: MDCH Faces of Our Orchestras Festival

by Heather Leviston 1st May, 2020
by Heather Leviston 1st May, 2020
391

Following another successful week of outstanding music making, Melbourne Digital Concert Hall continues to support local musicians with Faces of Our Orchestras Festival. It is being launched on the suitably auspicious date of May 1; not only is May Day the workers’ proclamation of just working conditions, it also evokes “mayday” the international call for help (based on the French m’aidez). MDCH has raised over $105,000 in its first month – proof of how much our musicians are valued and how keen people are to help them.

We have had access to many superb live streams and reruns of excellent performances from all over the world, including a terrific series, Bach’s Sei Solo, by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, presented by Guest Assistant Concertmaster Jessica Oddie, which began on Wednesday night. But subscribed fund-raising initiatives seem to be relatively rare; most pleas for financial support come in the form of requests for donations. Among the exceptions has been the Lockdown Concert to support the Tait Emergency Relief Fund for Australian and New Zealand Musicians in the UK, who have lost their income from performances. Australian mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean’s program of some of her favourite songs from around the world celebrated international musical collaboration and attracted substantial support.

MDCH continues to lead the way when it comes to practical assistance, however. Over eight consecutive evenings, 14 one-hour recitals live from the Athenaeum Theatre provide a chance to experience leading artists up close in a chamber setting. Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Concertmasters Dale Bartrop and Sophie Rowell, and Orchestra Victoria’s Concertmaster Yi Wang bookend a program of recitals ranging from solo Bach works, string trios and Beethoven cello sonatas to brass ensembles, English harp music and a concert by the ever-adventurous ensemble PLEXUS. It is a showcase for those artists who perform on stage and in the pit – concertmasters and tutti players – performing in instrument combinations less regularly heard in our concert halls.

Having discovered the pleasures of foot-tapping and arm-waving without disturbing others during an exciting performance of Beethoven’s “Kreutzer” Sonata by violinist Markiyan Melnychenko and pianist Rhodri Clarke (that final movement must have had many buzzing with energy), I am treasuring this new dimension of concert participation. Overcoming a certain awkwardness seen in some other presentations, Melnychenko’s friendly, relaxed introduction also put his virtual audience in a receptive frame of mind right from the outset. Beethoven’s masterpiece has also been chosen for the Festival finale featuring the MSO’s Concertmaster Sophie Rowell and pianist Kristian Chong. What a splendid way to celebrate music and musicians.

Concert 3 “Maximum Velocity”, featuring Michael Szabo (Principal Bass Trombone MSO), Tim Buzbee (Principal Tuba MSO) and Stefan Cassomenos (Piano) also promises to whip up plenty of excitement with an intriguing program of music by Bartok, Batterhamn, Meador and Bloch. Imaginative programming ensures there will be something for everyone in this festival.

Some music lovers will have taken advantage of MDCH’s partnership with Rita Erlich, who put together an appetising French and Polish inspired menu to accompany Gintaute Gataveckaite recital of 24 of Chopin’s op 28 preludes and Part 4 of Ian Munro’s Beethoven Piano Sonata Journey this week and will be looking forward to further delicious intermingling of all the senses.

Full Festival passes, for all 14 concerts are available at just $200 (plus a reduced booking fee of $20) – an incredible bargain at only $14.28 per concert. Each concert is available for sale individually at $24.

The website www.melbournedigitalconcerthall.com has all the details of artists and programs.

Tickets are available through the MCDH website: www.melbournedigitalconcerthall.com/tickets

Image: Melbourne Digital Concert Hall. Concert masters: William Hennessy (Melbourne Chamber Orchestra), Sophie Rowell (Melbourne Symphony Orchestra), Dale Barltrop (Melbourne Symphony Orchestra), Yi Wang (Orchestra Victoria). Image supplied.

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Heather Leviston

Heather Leviston has devoted much of her life to listening to classical music and attending concerts. An addiction to vocal and string music has led her to undertake extensive training in singing and perform as a member of the Victoria State Opera chorus and as a soloist with various musical organisations.

As a founding academic teacher of the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, she has had the privilege of witnessing the progress of many talented students, keenly following their careers by attending their performances both in Australia and overseas.

As a reviewer, initially for artsHub, and also for Sounds like Sydney, she has been keen to bring attention to the fine music-making that is on offer in Australia, especially in the form of live performance. Heather is a valued member of Classical Melbourne’s editorial team, with her reviews of opera and vocal music valued by performers and audiences alike.

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Events Calendar

35 events found.
  • May 2025

Calendar of Events

M Mon

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0 events, 28

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1 event, 30

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: The Verdi Gala Concert

April 30 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: The Verdi Gala Concert

A tribute to Verdi’s musical splendour with opera stars Nicole Car, Étienne Dupuis and Paul O’Neill. Prepare your heart for the greatest…

$65 – $189

2 events, 1

7:30 pm - 9:50 pm

Opera Scholars Australia: Lieder to Lehar

May 1 @ 7:30 pm - 9:50 pm

Opera Scholars Australia: Lieder to Lehar

Join Opera Scholars Australia for an unforgettable evening of music that transcends time and genre. This concert features a stunning selection…

$38 – $45
7:30 pm - 9:15 pm Event Series

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Fantasia

May 1 @ 7:30 pm - 9:15 pm Event Series

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Fantasia

Youthful brilliance and solemn beauty. At the heart of this program is a new violin concerto by one of Australia’s most…

$30 – $144

1 event, 2

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

ASQ & Melbourne Conservatorium Students Side-by-side concert

May 2 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

ASQ & Melbourne Conservatorium Students Side-by-side concert

We celebrate the culmination of a week of coaching and collaboration with the students of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music with…

Free

4 events, 3

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Abduction from the Seraglio

May 3 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Abduction from the Seraglio

Lyster Opera returns to the Irene Mitchell Studio, South Yarra, with a rousing new production of Mozart’s great comedy, “The Abduction…

$40
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: The Verdi Gala Concert

May 3 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: The Verdi Gala Concert

A tribute to Verdi’s musical splendour with opera stars Nicole Car, Étienne Dupuis and Paul O’Neill. Prepare your heart for the greatest…

$65 – $189
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Lyster Opera: The Abduction from the Seraglio – Mozart

May 3 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Lyster Opera: The Abduction from the Seraglio – Mozart

Lyster Opera presents a rousing new production of Mozart’s great comedy, The Abduction from the Seraglio. When Konstanze and Blonde are…

$30 – $40
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra – The Soul of the Cello: Timo-Veikko Valve

May 3 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra – The Soul of the Cello: Timo-Veikko Valve

Sublime and stunning Timo-Veikko Valve, Principal Cello of the Australian Chamber Orchestra, performs and directs this program of music arranged for…

$20 – $105

6 events, 4

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Abduction from the Seraglio

May 4 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Abduction from the Seraglio

Lyster Opera returns to the Irene Mitchell Studio, South Yarra, with a rousing new production of Mozart’s great comedy, “The Abduction…

$40
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Lyster Opera: The Abduction from the Seraglio – Mozart

May 4 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Lyster Opera: The Abduction from the Seraglio – Mozart

Lyster Opera presents a rousing new production of Mozart’s great comedy, The Abduction from the Seraglio. When Konstanze and Blonde are…

$30 – $40
2:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Schubertiade – Heidelberg Choral Society

May 4 @ 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Schubertiade – Heidelberg Choral Society

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear some of the most rhapsodic melodies and harmonies ever composed. Don’t miss the consummate genius that is Schubert.

$60
2:30 pm - 4:15 pm Event Series

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Fantasia

May 4 @ 2:30 pm - 4:15 pm Event Series

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Fantasia

Youthful brilliance and solemn beauty. At the heart of this program is a new violin concerto by one of Australia’s most…

$30 – $144
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Heidelberg Choral Society: Schubertiade

May 4 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Heidelberg Choral Society: Schubertiade

Heidelberg Choral Society performs our Schubertiade (a concert of Schubert's choral music) this coming Sunday 4th May at 2.30 pm in…

$35 – $60
3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Choristry presents: When I Was a Child

May 4 @ 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Choristry presents: When I Was a Child

Choristry's first concert of 2025 features choral music evoking the songs and stories of childhood, with music by Eric Whitacre, Sarah…

$25 – $35

1 event, 5

7:30 pm - 9:15 pm

Erwan Keravec – 8 Pipers for Philip Glass + Nat Bartsch

May 5 @ 7:30 pm - 9:15 pm

Erwan Keravec – 8 Pipers for Philip Glass + Nat Bartsch

A musical odyssey that demands to be heard, witnessed and felt with every sense. With the saturated sonic textures of eight…

$59 – $69

2 events, 6

7:00 pm - 9:10 pm

Musica Viva Australia: Hollywood Songbook

May 6 @ 7:00 pm - 9:10 pm

Musica Viva Australia: Hollywood Songbook

Signum Saxophone Quartet and Ali McGregor. The musicians of the Signum Saxophone Quartet, who won hearts across Australia on their debut…

$56 – $153
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Melbourne Conservatorium of Music: Draevon – Between Light and Darkness

May 6 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Melbourne Conservatorium of Music: Draevon – Between Light and Darkness

Transfigured String Trio presents Russian composer Alfred Schnitkke’s extraordinary dark and compelling string trio in its original format composed in 1985…

Free

1 event, 7

7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: The Crossing Machine with Jordan Zdimirovic

May 7 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: The Crossing Machine with Jordan Zdimirovic

The Crossing Machine with Jordan Zdimirovic: Elvis Costello’s The Juliet Letters and new renditions for string quartet of Fleetwood Mac —…

3 events, 8

6:30 pm - 7:25 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

May 8 @ 6:30 pm - 7:25 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

Discover the quirky charm of Victorian Opera’s fun-filled family production, The Lyrebird’s Voice. In this enchanting opera set in the Australian…

$42
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Discover Sibelius – Side by Side with Melbourne Youth Orchestra

May 8 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Discover Sibelius – Side by Side with Melbourne Youth Orchestra

Illuminating and inspiring Discover the genius of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius through this guided concert presentation by Benjamin Northey, members of…

$20 – $39
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Violeta Parra’s Chile

May 8 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Violeta Parra’s Chile

  Violeta Parra’s Chile – A Musical Odyssey Through a Nation’s Troubled History Journey into the heart of Chile’s rich and…

2 events, 9

1:00 pm - 1:55 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

May 9 @ 1:00 pm - 1:55 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

Discover the quirky charm of Victorian Opera’s fun-filled family production, The Lyrebird’s Voice. In this enchanting opera set in the Australian…

$42
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Holst – The Planets

May 9 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Holst – The Planets

HOLST – The Planets  Prepare for a cosmic musical journey as internationally acclaimed pianists Coady Green and Jerry Wong join forces with Brent Miller and the Melbourne Conservatorium…

$32 – $42

8 events, 10

10:30 am - 11:20 am Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Classic Kids: Wizardry School

May 10 @ 10:30 am - 11:20 am Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Classic Kids: Wizardry School

Spellbinding and immersive Explore the magical ingredients of the Symphony Orchestra through the iconic music of John Williams, Saint-Saëns and Stravinsky.…

$28
12:30 pm - 1:20 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Classic Kids: Wizardry School

May 10 @ 12:30 pm - 1:20 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Classic Kids: Wizardry School

Spellbinding and immersive Explore the magical ingredients of the Symphony Orchestra through the iconic music of John Williams, Saint-Saëns and Stravinsky.…

$28
2:00 pm - 2:55 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

May 10 @ 2:00 pm - 2:55 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

Discover the quirky charm of Victorian Opera’s fun-filled family production, The Lyrebird’s Voice. In this enchanting opera set in the Australian…

$42
4:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Jane Austen’s Music – Pemberley Revisited

May 10 @ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Jane Austen’s Music – Pemberley Revisited

Step into the world of Jane Austen for Melbourne Recital Centre’s celebration of the beloved author’s 250th birthday. After an evocative…

$35 – $79
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Beethoven Marathon Part One – Beethoven’s World

May 10 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Beethoven Marathon Part One – Beethoven’s World

Beethoven Marathon Part One Beethoven’s WORLD – MUSIC, MYSTERY AND MASTERPIECES Before diving into The Parlour’s Immortal Beloved, begin your evening with…

$32 – $42
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

ANAM at the Convent: Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

May 10 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

ANAM at the Convent: Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

“ANAM’s extraordinary young musicians display such verve and curiosity, and I’m truly excited to be bringing Genesis Baroque’s specialists to ANAM…

$40
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Choristry presents: When I Was a Child

May 10 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Choristry presents: When I Was a Child

Choristry's first concert of 2025 features choral music evoking the songs and stories of childhood, with music by Eric Whitacre, Sarah…

$35 – $425
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Beethoven Marathon Part One – Beethoven Immortal Beloved

May 10 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Beethoven Marathon Part One – Beethoven Immortal Beloved

Beethoven – Immortal Beloved Musicologists often overlook the crucial role that women played in shaping the legacies of great composers, yet…

$32 – $42

1 event, 11

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Astra Choir: In us are all passions and all vices

May 11 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Astra Choir: In us are all passions and all vices

Christoph Demantius, German St John Passion (1631),  6-part choir León Schidlowsky, Nameless Mass for Victor Jara, graphic score (1976) with poems by George Grosz and Vladimir Mayakovsky…

$20

1 event, 12

7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Daniel Lozakovich

May 12 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Daniel Lozakovich

Witness one of today’s most exciting and sought-after violinists. Daniel Lozakovich is renowned for possessing ‘perfect mastery’ (Le Figaro) of his…

$67 – $115

4 events, 13

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Selby & Friends: This Mirror Has Three Faces

May 13 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Selby & Friends: This Mirror Has Three Faces

Experience Lera Auerbach’s Trio, Schumann’s Finale, and Smetana’s masterpiece with Violinist Kristian Winther. A breathtaking concert program which begins in stunning…

$63 – $81
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Selby & Friends: This Mirror Has Three Faces

May 13 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Selby & Friends: This Mirror Has Three Faces

Experience Lera Auerbach’s Trio, Schumann’s Finale, and Smetana’s masterpiece with Violinist Kristian Winther. A breathtaking concert program which begins in stunning…

$63 – $81
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Omega Ensemble: Distant World

May 13 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Omega Ensemble: Distant World

The future of our planet in a world gone mad. Latvian composer Pēteris Vasks’ Piano Quartet from 2001 grapples with his familiar…

$39 – $119
7:30 pm - 8:40 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Opera Closets

May 13 @ 7:30 pm - 8:40 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Opera Closets

Step into a world where every outfit tells a story, and every story soars with song. In Opera Closets, multi-award-winning Australian…

$32 – $42

3 events, 14

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

ANAM at the Convent: Sara Macliver with ANAM Pianos

May 14 @ 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

ANAM at the Convent: Sara Macliver with ANAM Pianos

“It has always been an absolute joy for me to perform alongside the brilliant young musicians at ANAM. I have no…

$40
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Lyric Opera – Their Voices Will Rise

May 14 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Lyric Opera – Their Voices Will Rise

Prepare for an electrifying evening of world premieres and daring musical narratives. Australian rising star Meta Cohen unveils a thrilling and…

$32 – $42
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

May 14 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$69 – $99

3 events, 15

7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Beethoven, Cherny and Liszt Piano Duets and Songs

May 15 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Beethoven, Cherny and Liszt Piano Duets and Songs

Coady Green and Glenn Riddle unite for a rare and dazzling program of piano four-hand gems from Beethoven, his pupil Carl…

$32 – $42
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

May 15 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$69 – $99
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: An Evening of Fairy Tales

May 15 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: An Evening of Fairy Tales

Fantasy and wonder Since time immemorial, fairy tales have been a source of fantasy and wonder for the world’s greatest composers.…

$20 – $139

4 events, 16

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Event Series

Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

May 16 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Event Series

Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

Songs of rest and renewal. A heartfelt program of soul-nourishing compositions explores love in both human and divine forms. Following a…

$45 – $55
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: The Institute for Enquiring Minds Presents Michael Leslie – Bach, Chopin, Beethoven, Schumann

May 16 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: The Institute for Enquiring Minds Presents Michael Leslie – Bach, Chopin, Beethoven, Schumann

The Institute for Enquiring Minds is an educational initiative helping high school students experiencing disadvantage improve their maths skills. For the…

$23 – $42
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

May 16 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$69 – $99
8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

May 16 @ 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

Songs of rest and renewal. A heartfelt program of soul-nourishing compositions explores love in both human and divine forms. Following a…

$45 – $55

5 events, 17

4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Beethoven Marathon Part Two – Beethoven’s 5th and 6th Symphonies for Piano Four Hands

May 17 @ 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Beethoven Marathon Part Two – Beethoven’s 5th and 6th Symphonies for Piano Four Hands

Begin your Beethoven odyssey with two of his most beloved symphonies – the stormy, fate-driven 5th and the pastoral, sun-drenched 6th…

$32 – $42
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Victoria Chorale presents Joseph Haydn “The Creation”

May 17 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Victoria Chorale presents Joseph Haydn “The Creation”

VICTORIA CHORALE Art of Sound Orchestra Conductor Mario Dobernig To start our 2025 concert program, Victoria Chorale is excited and proud…

$20 – $65
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Liszt’s two piano arrangement of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony

May 17 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Liszt’s two piano arrangement of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony

The Institute for Enquiring Minds is an educational initiative helping high school students experiencing disadvantage improve their maths skills. For the…

$32 – $42
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Australian Chamber Orchestra: Theremin & Beyond

May 17 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Australian Chamber Orchestra: Theremin & Beyond

Explore new musical frontiers as you take a deep dive into the thrilling soundworld of the theremin, the world’s first electronic…

$30 – $141
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: An Evening of Fairy Tales

May 17 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: An Evening of Fairy Tales

Fantasy and wonder Since time immemorial, fairy tales have been a source of fantasy and wonder for the world’s greatest composers.…

$20 – $139

3 events, 18

2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Flinders Quartet Flinders Quartet at Montsalvat – Paavali

May 18 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Flinders Quartet Flinders Quartet at Montsalvat – Paavali

Paavali Jumppanen joins Flinders Quartet for their 25th anniversary, featuring works by Bacewicz, Shostakovich, and Beethoven. Melbourne has been lucky to…

$40 – $50
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: A Gwen Harwood Cycle

May 18 @ 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: A Gwen Harwood Cycle

Duo Eclettico – Justin Kenealy (saxophone) and Coady Green (piano) are joined by the one the Australia’s leading actors, Helen Morse,…

$32 – $42
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Corpus Medicorum & The Royal Melbourne Hospital Foundation: Concert #2 – Atmosphere

May 18 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Corpus Medicorum & The Royal Melbourne Hospital Foundation: Concert #2 – Atmosphere

Thunderous melodies and electrifying energy in Russian classics. Concert two features giants of the Russian repertoire to make your spirits soar…

$30 – $65

1 event, 19

7:30 pm Event Series

Australian Chamber Orchestra: Theremin & Beyond

May 19 @ 7:30 pm Event Series

Australian Chamber Orchestra: Theremin & Beyond

Explore new musical frontiers as you take a deep dive into the thrilling soundworld of the theremin, the world’s first electronic…

$30 – $141

4 events, 20

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

Event Series
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

Get ready to cut loose!

The 80s phenomenon Footloose is hitting Australia—bigger, bolder, and more explosive than ever! This brand-new remastered production will have you dancing in the aisles to the iconic hits you know and love, including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear It for the Boy, and, of course, the unforgettable title track, Footloose.

Join Ren, the city kid turned rebel with a cause, as he shakes up a small town where music and dancing are outlawed. With electrifying choreography, a feel-good story, and sizzling Australian talent, this smash-hit musical will leave you on your feet and cheering for more.
Don’t miss the fun, energy, and 80s nostalgia—playing for a strictly limited 3-week season.

$69 – $199
8:00 am - 5:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

Get ready to cut loose!

The 80s phenomenon Footloose is hitting Australia—bigger, bolder, and more explosive than ever! This brand-new remastered production will have you dancing in the aisles to the iconic hits you know and love, including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear It for the Boy, and, of course, the unforgettable title track, Footloose.

Join Ren, the city kid turned rebel with a cause, as he shakes up a small town where music and dancing are outlawed. With electrifying choreography, a feel-good story, and sizzling Australian talent, this smash-hit musical will leave you on your feet and cheering for more.
Don’t miss the fun, energy, and 80s nostalgia—playing for a strictly limited 3-week season.

$69 – $199
11:00 am - 12:15 pm

ANAM: MOSTLY MOZART – SERENADE

May 20 @ 11:00 am - 12:15 pm

ANAM: MOSTLY MOZART – SERENADE

ANAM returns to showcase the remarkable versatility of chamber ensembles. Begin your morning by venturing to the sunny afternoon with a chamber…

$52 – $59
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 20 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$169 – $393

2 events, 21

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 21 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$169 – $393

4 events, 22

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Australian String Quartet: Rapture

May 22 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Australian String Quartet: Rapture

Rapture pulses with a vital force through the music of Beethoven, Perica, Janáček and Golijov. Beethoven’s String Quartet No.11 in F…

$15 – $95
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 22 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$169 – $393
7:30 pm - 9:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

May 22 @ 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

Wars trilogy as The Force Awakens comes to Hamer Hall with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Witness John Williams’ epic score performed…

$86 – $150

5 events, 23

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Fallen Light

May 23 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Fallen Light

After two wonderfully successful concerts in Sydney in March where Johanna Selleck teamed up with pianist Sumiko Yamamura and premiered three…

$25 – $35
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 23 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$169 – $393
7:30 pm - 9:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

May 23 @ 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

Wars trilogy as The Force Awakens comes to Hamer Hall with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Witness John Williams’ epic score performed…

$86 – $150
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 23 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Hadestown is a defiantly hopeful theatrical experience that will take you on a journey to the underworld and back, intertwining two mythic…

$58 – $199

7 events, 24

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

1:00 pm - 3:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

May 24 @ 1:00 pm - 3:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

Wars trilogy as The Force Awakens comes to Hamer Hall with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Witness John Williams’ epic score performed…

$86 – $150
2:00 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 24 @ 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Hadestown is a defiantly hopeful theatrical experience that will take you on a journey to the underworld and back, intertwining two mythic…

$58 – $199
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Monash Chorale: Let’s celebrate! 30 Years of Monash Chorale

May 24 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Monash Chorale: Let’s celebrate! 30 Years of Monash Chorale

Monash Chorale is turning 30 and to celebrate this milestone we want to entertain you with a concert celebrating music from…

$10 – $35
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 24 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$169 – $393
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 24 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Hadestown is a defiantly hopeful theatrical experience that will take you on a journey to the underworld and back, intertwining two mythic…

$58 – $199
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato: Daniel Herscovitch – Indonesia, Our Neighbour

May 24 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato: Daniel Herscovitch – Indonesia, Our Neighbour

In this program of music from our nearest neighbour Indonesia, Daniel Herscovitch performs piano music by Trisutji Kamal, Yazeed Djamin, Ananda…

$20 – $30

5 events, 25

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

11:30 am - 4:30 pm

Camerata Orchestra Jubilee Celebration

May 25 @ 11:30 am - 4:30 pm

Camerata Orchestra Jubilee Celebration

The venue is offering a special behind-the-curtains opportunity for families, students and music aficionados to experience a morning with a full orchestra during dress rehearsal in a grand concert hall.

$15 – $60
3:00 pm - 5:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 25 @ 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Hadestown is a defiantly hopeful theatrical experience that will take you on a journey to the underworld and back, intertwining two mythic…

$58 – $199
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Melbourne Conservatorium of Music: Scene

May 25 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Melbourne Conservatorium of Music: Scene

oin The University of Melbourne Wind Symphony for a concert of musical storytelling. Melbourne-native and composer, Mary Finsterer's Nextwave Fanfare is…

Free
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 25 @ 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

Cameron Mackintosh's production of Boublil and Schönberg's LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR has commenced its World Tour and will arrive in…

$169 – $393

1 event, 26

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

Event Series

1 event, 27

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

1 event, 28

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

1 event, 29

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

1 event, 30

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

1 event, 31

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

2 events, 1

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

June 1 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

Melbourne Opera will stage Saint-Saëns’ grand opera Samson & Delilah from 1 June at the Palais Theatre. One of the greatest…

$69 – $199
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
April 30
April 30 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: The Verdi Gala Concert

May 1
May 1 @ 7:30 pm - 9:50 pm

Opera Scholars Australia: Lieder to Lehar

May 1 @ 7:30 pm - 9:15 pm Event Series

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Fantasia

May 2
May 2 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

ASQ & Melbourne Conservatorium Students Side-by-side concert

May 3
May 3 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Abduction from the Seraglio

May 3 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: The Verdi Gala Concert

May 3 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Lyster Opera: The Abduction from the Seraglio – Mozart

May 3 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra – The Soul of the Cello: Timo-Veikko Valve

May 4
May 4 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Abduction from the Seraglio

May 4 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Lyster Opera: The Abduction from the Seraglio – Mozart

May 4 @ 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Schubertiade – Heidelberg Choral Society

May 4 @ 2:30 pm - 4:15 pm Event Series

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra: Fantasia

May 4 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Heidelberg Choral Society: Schubertiade

May 4 @ 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Choristry presents: When I Was a Child

May 5
May 5 @ 7:30 pm - 9:15 pm

Erwan Keravec – 8 Pipers for Philip Glass + Nat Bartsch

May 6
May 6 @ 7:00 pm - 9:10 pm

Musica Viva Australia: Hollywood Songbook

May 6 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Melbourne Conservatorium of Music: Draevon – Between Light and Darkness

May 7
May 7 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: The Crossing Machine with Jordan Zdimirovic

May 8
May 8 @ 6:30 pm - 7:25 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

May 8 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Discover Sibelius – Side by Side with Melbourne Youth Orchestra

May 8 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Violeta Parra’s Chile

May 9
May 9 @ 1:00 pm - 1:55 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

May 9 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Holst – The Planets

May 10
May 10 @ 10:30 am - 11:20 am Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Classic Kids: Wizardry School

May 10 @ 12:30 pm - 1:20 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Classic Kids: Wizardry School

May 10 @ 2:00 pm - 2:55 pm Event Series

Victorian Opera: The Lyrebird’s Voice

May 10 @ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Jane Austen’s Music – Pemberley Revisited

May 10 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Beethoven Marathon Part One – Beethoven’s World

May 10 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

ANAM at the Convent: Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

May 10 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Choristry presents: When I Was a Child

May 10 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival: Beethoven Marathon Part One – Beethoven Immortal Beloved

May 11
May 11 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Astra Choir: In us are all passions and all vices

May 12
May 12 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Daniel Lozakovich

May 13
May 13 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Selby & Friends: This Mirror Has Three Faces

May 13 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Selby & Friends: This Mirror Has Three Faces

May 13 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Omega Ensemble: Distant World

May 13 @ 7:30 pm - 8:40 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Opera Closets

May 14
May 14 @ 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

ANAM at the Convent: Sara Macliver with ANAM Pianos

May 14 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Lyric Opera – Their Voices Will Rise

May 14 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

May 15
May 15 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Beethoven, Cherny and Liszt Piano Duets and Songs

May 15 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

May 15 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: An Evening of Fairy Tales

May 16
May 16 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Event Series

Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

May 16 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: The Institute for Enquiring Minds Presents Michael Leslie – Bach, Chopin, Beethoven, Schumann

May 16 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular

May 16 @ 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Genesis Baroque with Sara Macliver

May 17
May 17 @ 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Beethoven Marathon Part Two – Beethoven’s 5th and 6th Symphonies for Piano Four Hands

May 17 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Victoria Chorale presents Joseph Haydn “The Creation”

May 17 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: Liszt’s two piano arrangement of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony

May 17 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Australian Chamber Orchestra: Theremin & Beyond

May 17 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: An Evening of Fairy Tales

May 18
May 18 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Flinders Quartet Flinders Quartet at Montsalvat – Paavali

May 18 @ 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Event Series

fortyfivedownstairs Chamber Music Festival 2025: A Gwen Harwood Cycle

May 18 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Corpus Medicorum & The Royal Melbourne Hospital Foundation: Concert #2 – Atmosphere

May 19
May 19 @ 7:30 pm Event Series

Australian Chamber Orchestra: Theremin & Beyond

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20 @ 11:00 am - 12:15 pm

ANAM: MOSTLY MOZART – SERENADE

May 20 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 21 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 22 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Australian String Quartet: Rapture

May 22 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 22 @ 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 23 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Fallen Light

May 23 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 23 @ 7:30 pm - 9:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

May 23 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 24 @ 1:00 pm - 3:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert

May 24 @ 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 24 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Monash Chorale: Let’s celebrate! 30 Years of Monash Chorale

May 24 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

May 24 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 24 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato: Daniel Herscovitch – Indonesia, Our Neighbour

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 25 @ 11:30 am - 4:30 pm

Camerata Orchestra Jubilee Celebration

May 25 @ 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 25 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Melbourne Conservatorium of Music: Scene

May 25 @ 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Les Misérables – The Arena Spectacular

June 1
June 1 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

June 1 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

View Calendar

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Introducing Classic Melbourne

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Speech at launch by Conductor Andrew Wailes

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