MVA's wide-reaching educational program features two new shows celebrating the joys of music-making alongside a host of returning favourites.

Electric Fields, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, David Bridie and Parvyn among this year's celebrated independent artists.

The visionary opera and theatre director famous for Einstein on the Beach redefined what a stage production could be and do.

The funding commitment – nearly $40m – is one of the state’s most significant investments in the performing arts to date.

"A most beautiful reprieve and reward", Loribelle Spirovski's finger-painted portrait of William Barton goes over big with the public.

Véronique Serret and William Barton, JADE Ensemble, bluesman C.W. Stoneking and Scottish techno star Franck among the headliners.

Taking the reins from Paavali Jumppanen, Goldsworthy will be the first Australian National Academy of Music alum to lead the institution.

Think tank A New Approach outlines a pathway to a truly national arts and culture strategy. "Sticking with the status quo is a lost opportunity," says its CEO.

The jeweller and entrepreneur, who died this week, was also the founder of a highly regarded international violin competition.

Currently Head of Contemporary Performance at the Sydney Opera House, Ebony Bott takes the reins at a critical time for Brisbane Festival.

A new festival to rival the likes of Vivid Sydney and SXSW among initiatives designed to "unlock" the west's cultural potential.

Nicole Car, Siobhan Stagg and Claire Edwardes among this year's nominees. Winners to be revealed in October in Brisbane.