INTERNATIONALLY-renowned Australian group Acacia Quartet opens Coffs Harbour Music Society’s (CHMS) 2023 season with what promises to be a feast for music lovers.

The Quartet comprises Lisa Stewart and Doreen Cumming on violins, Stefan Duwe on viola and Anna Martin-
Scrase playing the cello.

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They have earned great respect for their versatile and inventive programs and this season opener is no exception, with well-loved classics and an exciting new work depicting a Dreamtime story.

The group will play Beethoven’s Harp Quartet, Schubert’s ‘Death and the Maiden’ followed by Alice Chance’s beautiful setting of ‘Pallah Pallah, Precious Colours’, which musically explores Gamilaraay woman Auntie June
Barker’s poetic telling of the dreamtime story of how the opals near Lightning Ridge were formed.

Acacia Quartet formed thirteen years ago and made its international debut in Vancouver in 2016 and then in Europe the following year.

The group has performed at the Sydney Opera House, the City Recital Hall Sydney and the Melbourne Recital Hall, as well as extensive touring in Australia and overseas.

Acacia has recorded twelve albums, with ‘Blue Silence’ earning a nomination for an APRA-AMCOS Art Music Award for Excellence.

Acacia is passionate about supporting Australian composers and working with young musicians, and sharing their love of music with audiences of all ages.

Its performances feature regularly on radio stations around the world.

A special masterclass by members of the Quartet in the afternoon before the concert will provide an opportunity for students and music lovers of all ages to play and be mentored, to gain inspiration and to enrich their concert experience.

The Music Society holds regular masterclasses which are free.

Everyone is able to participate, but there is no obligation to play or to attend the evening concert.

CHMS simply wants instrumentalists to enjoy the experience.

The next concert will feature the unusual combination of two pianos and a clarinet with music from Bach to Ravel on July 14.

Other artists this year will include the young Penny Quartet in September, dazzling flamenco performers Bandaluzia (also in September), exciting young European duo Wildschut and Brauss in November and a Christmas special from Coffs Harbour pianist Adam Herd.

The opening concert will be at 7.30pm on Friday May 19 at Lecture Theatre D, Southern Cross University Campus.

To buy tickets or for more details about attending the masterclass or concert, call 0466 985652 or email enquiries@coffsmusicsociety.com.au.

Tickets are $60/student $15 or subscriptions from $100.

CHMS has introduced a special family package this year where two children are included free.

By Andrew VIVIAN