The beating heart of the Long Listen Festival, the Chamber Music Gala unites three generations of musicians in a joyful celebration of collaboration, mentorship, and the timeless power of ensemble playing. At its centre is the world premiere of a new commission by Nicole Murphy, composed especially for this year’s festival.

Audiences will experience the combined artistry of the Festival Chamber Orchestra, established festival artists, Sunshine Coast classical musicians, and outstanding emerging talent from UQ School of Music, Queensland Conservatorium, and Queensland Youth Symphony, performing side by side in an inspiring afternoon of music-making.

The program spans Australian creativity and international favourites, with works by Elena Kats-Chernin, Sally Whitwell, Brenda Gifford, Ian Munro, Caroline Shaw, and Copland’s expansive Appalachian Spring. Closing with folk-inspired gems arranged by the Danish String Quartet, this Gala embodies the festival’s spirit of listening deeply, celebrating tradition, and embracing bold new voices.