Artistic Director Jack Liebeck’s sense of humour shines through his curation. After an eloquent Listening to Country led by William Mabo, UK soprano Carolyn Sampson sings the first number of Bernstein’s song cycle I Hate Music with delicious irony. The work was dedicated to Edys Merril, the composer’s flatmate, who complained about his endless piano doodling by exclaiming the work’s title phrase.

Joseph Havlat’s 64 Geese delights the crowd. In a witty introduction, Havlat – who could double as a stand-up comedian – confesses he enjoyed making pianists execute crazy music at a frenzied pace. He brands his work for six hands and two pianos as “unhinged ragtime”.

Olga Zado, Ana-Maria Vera and Havlat’s execution of impeccably synchronised virtuosity at a scorching speed may be a laugh-out-loud moment for Havlat, but nobody in the audience doubts the remarkable skill of this trio.

Joseph Havlat, Australian Festival of Chamber Music. Photo © Rob Parsons

Apart from Schubert’s An Die Music, D.547 beautifully sung by Sampson, Liebeck’s program steers clear of traditional staples from Western-Europe. Instead, Welsh, American, Spanish, Australian and Argentinian repertoire flavour this memorable and entertaining event full of surprise and contrasting...