In news that will thrill music lovers, the 30th Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) will take place in Townsville from 23 July to 1 August as a joyous 10-day celebration of music curated by Artistic Director, Kathryn Stott in her third and final festival, themed, Carnival.

Over 30 music-filled years, the AFCM has forged a stunning international reputation as one of the best chamber music celebrations in the world, one that attracts leading music makers and music lovers from all corners of the globe, and while 2021 presents its challenges, Kathryn Stott has created a program and an artistic line-up that can only be described as extraordinary.

Featuring 133 works, 112 composers, four world premieres and five Australian premieres the program stars more than 40 Australian musicians, 15 in their AFCM debut, as well as three ensembles including the Goldner String Quartet in their 25th anniversary year, and three local groups including the acclaimed Dancenorth.

The artist line-up is led by the return of legendary Australian pianist and toast of the world’s great concert halls, Piers Lane (and former AFCM Artistic Director), internationally applauded didgeridoo star William Barton returning to the Festival to celebrate the milestone 30th anniversary with his own compositions, and soprano and composer Deborah Cheetham with an important world premiere music event. They are joined by Kirsty McCahon (double bass), Zoë Black (violin), Tobias Breider (viola), Mark Gaydon (bassoon), James Crabb (accordion), Lloyd Van’t Hoff (clarinet), Timothy Young (piano), Natsuko Yoshimoto (violin), Daniel de Borah (piano) and a raft of fellow musical makers, representing the best of Australian talent from across the country.

This is just a taste of what is on offer – for more information about the Australian Festival of Chamber Music, head to the official website.