Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula once again comes to life with classical music, world premieres and cross-genre collaborations. In 2026, co-Artistic Directors Melissa Doecke and Ben Opie present 18 events over nine days, including the world premiere of Aaron Wyatt’s Every Plant Has Its Own Dreaming at Peninsula Hot Springs, inspired by native flora and performed by Ensemble Offspring. Other highlights include an Opera Gala with soprano Myriam Arbouz, tenor Jacob Lawrence and baritone David Greco, who also performs Schumann’s Dichterliebe; Karin Schaupp’s guitar recitals; and Ensemble 642’s Baroque by Candlelight at St John’s Anglican Church, Flinders.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Acclaimed Australian baritone David Greco and UK-born keyboardist and conductor Chad Kelly reunite for a spellbinding recital of art songs by the 19th century’s most celebrated musical partnership, Robert and Clara Schumann. Featuring the beloved song cycle Dichterliebe, the program reveals the emotional intensity and poetic intimacy at the heart of German Romanticism. United by a long-standing artistic partnership, Greco and Kelly bring fresh insight, expressive nuance and historically informed style to these masterpieces, illuminating their enduring beauty through deeply felt musical storytelling. This is a rare opportunity to experience lieder performed with exceptional artistry by two world-class musicians.