Sydney’s outstanding Omega Ensemble closes an adventurous season with a program of musical diversity that is equal parts invigorating and uplifting.

The three pieces, which include the world premiere of a work by Australian composer Ella Macens, provide a variety of contrasts – between light and shade, fast and slow, wind and strings – showcasing the talents of seven musicians led by Artistic Director clarinetist David Rowden.

Two of the works provide a showcase for Rowden’s virtuoso skills and the spirit of legendary jazz clarinetist and ‘King of Swing’ bandleader Benny Goodman is very much in evidence throughout the afternoon, which starts appropriately with Béla Bartók’s Contrasts.

Omega Ensemble: Rare Sugar. Photo © Georgia Jane Griffiths

This 1938 set of three pieces was written for Goodman and violinist Joseph Szigeti in 1938. It was one of the first pieces Bartók wrote in America. The music includes complex Bulgarian dance rhythms as well as recognising Goodman’s jazz heritage.

There is a playful chemistry between violinist Véronique Serret and Rowden who swap licks in the Verbunkos Recruiting Dance opening, starting off with a plucked marching...