For violinist and artistic director Jack Liebeck, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville is a place where sunshine and sonic adventures go hand in hand.

Now in his fourth year at the helm of the event, Liebeck has set an ambitious course for the July 2025 edition of the AFCM, with a strong lineup of international talent, six world premieres, and a renewed emphasis on connection – between people, places, and ideas.

Speaking to Limelight from the United Kingdom, Liebeck says he’s already gearing up for the sun and ocean as well as the music. He advises first time artists to pack their beachwear, but not to arrive assuming there will be much time to enjoy it.

“It’s probably the most intense music festival I’ve ever been involved with,” Liebeck says. “But as I tell the artists, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a chamber musician.”

Jack Liebeck, Artistic Director of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music. Photo supplied

From July 25 to August 3, Townsville will once again become a gathering point for more than 40 musicians from across Australia and the world,...