There are few better ways to spend a Sunday afternoon than enjoying a program of musical delights from Queensland’s foremost chamber ensemble, Ensemble Q. The first concert of their Sundays by the Lake program, The Mendelssohns, does not disappoint, showcasing two pieces each by Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn against the spectacular lake backdrop at the University of Queensland in Brisbane.

Teens Coco Li, Serena Kang, Alessandro Martinez and Samuel Wu of Mini Q, Ensemble Q’s mentorship program for talented youngsters, provide the amuse-bouche of a Sunday feast of chamber music, playing an excerpt from Ravel’s challenging String Quartet in F major. Their rendition is flawless, with lovely intonation and perfect pizzicato. It is reassuring that there are gifted Queensland musicians waiting in the wings.

Ensemble Q: The Mendelssohns at GHD Auditorium, Universitry of Queensland. Photo © Gavin Rebetzke

Ensemble Q’s Composer-in-Residence, Anne Cawrse’s Sanctuary for violin and cello, contemplates “what makes a place special”. Inspired by migrating shorebirds, the delicate strings, reminiscent of a Scottish air, are punctuated by frenzied flocks feeding, depicted by Adam Chalabi’s violin and punctuated...