Classical Music

Rupert Guenther: New Letters To Esterházy
Commissioned by ABC Classic FM, this sonata of improvisations depicts imaginary letters sent from the present day to Joseph Haydn in 18th-century Eisenstadt. This world premiere tour features composer-violinist Rupert Guenther – former sideman to Sir George Martin, Olivia Newton-John, John Farnham and Anthony Warlow among others. It concludes with Hakone Maple, styled on the ancient tradition of Japanese shakuhachi flute music; the Arabic-influenced So Many Stars; and Wandjina, describing the mythological figure’s relationship with the Australian desert landscape.
30 June – 1 September, various venues around the country, rupertguenther.com

Sydney International Piano Competition
This year, 32 competitors from 17 countries are competing before a jury chaired by pianist Piers Lane. The Sydney has a proud history of commissioning new works from Australian composers, and in 2016, Lane made their inclusion in the solo rounds mandatory. Competitors can choose from 28 entries to the 2021 Composing the Future competition. This...