Launching over 20 world premieres from emerging and established Australian composers, the ensemble touts new music across NSW and Victoria, as well as internationally in Helsinki and Berlin.

The Artistic Director of Taikoz and Percussion Australia, Ian Cleworth, explains how Taikoz has a set of taiko drums custom-made by the venerated Asano family – who keep the secret to the Asano sound shrouded in mystery.

Uzbek pianist Behzod Abduraimov shone in duet with the QSO in Rachmanimov’s Concerto No 2 for Piano and Orchestra, while ancient landscapes came to life in Lachlan Skipworth’s Hinterland.

Cameron Lam started out looking at the sky and pondering the stars, but his thoughts quickly turned to contemplations of death, mourning, bird song, and distant landscapes.

The big guns are out this month with box sets from Decca and DG, but other labels have plenty on offer, including an outstanding vocal recital from Nicky Spence.

A change of direction for Skipworth yields rich rewards.

Cameron Lam explores new and recent releases, including orchestral masterpieces, electronic wonders, intimate chamber music, and those that blur the lines beautifully.

There is a sense of artistic transformation in the Perth-based composer's new album of chamber works.

Cameron Lam explores music for two in this month's playlist of Australian art music.

Melbourne-based composer Alex Turley has won this year's prize, out of a bumper crop 26 entrants.

December’s playlist is entirely constructed from 2021 releases. It’s been a great chance to look through what’s been happening through an intense and stressful year – and the amazing work our composers and performers have done.

The chamber ensemble is looking for new wind quintets from young Australian composers, aged 18-35.