Australia’s most prestigious chamber music competitions are set for an exciting future, backed by a new consortium of leading music organisations and supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
The Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition, and its sister event for the Asia Pacific region, will be delivered by Musica Viva in partnership with the Melbourne Recital Centre (MRC) and the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM).
Held every four years, the Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition is a career-making event for young chamber music ensembles from around the world. It is regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions of its kind in the world and attracts international audiences.
The Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition has been staged in Melbourne every four years since 1991, and since 2009 has been complemented by the Asia Pacific Chamber Music Competition, held on an alternate four-year cycle.
Musica Viva is Australia’s leading national chamber music organisation, presenting nearly 2000 performances and programs across the country. It will be expanding its base in Melbourne to partner with MRC and ANAM to deliver the competitions and an expanded program.
Wilma Smith, former Concertmaster of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has been appointed Artistic Director of the Competitions, working alongside Musica Viva’s newly appointed Victorian General Manager, Hywel Sims.
The Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition will be held in 2018 and the Asia Pacific Chamber Music Competition will be held in 2020.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“This is a great example of our creative organisations working together to achieve a fantastic result for artists, for audiences and for Melbourne as a leading cultural destination.”
“Bringing together Australia’s national chamber music organisation, the best chamber music venue in the country, and our elite training academy for classical musicians will give the competitions a leading edge.”
Quotes attributable to Musica Viva CEO Mary Jo Capps
“Musica Viva is honoured to be working with our strategic partners, MRC and ANAM, to take the Competitions forward within an expanded sustainable framework.”
“We applaud the vision of the Victorian Government in supporting this important program. Collectively, we aim to take engagement with chamber music to a new level, for competitors and audiences alike.”
Quotes attributable to Chair of Chamber Music Australia Julian Burnside AO
“Musica Viva, ANAM and Melbourne Recital Centre have all been key elements of the success of the competitions.”
“Under their leadership, and with the continuing support of the Victorian Government, the competitions are on course for a strong and sustainable future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020