Brunswick Beethoven Festival composers and musicians
Brunswick Beethoven Festival logo

Brunswick Beethoven Festival

16th festival

Experience the Brunswick Beethoven Festival —a rendezvous of world-class performers in the heart of Brunswick, Melbourne. Delight yourself in the finest classical chamber music featuring Albeniz, Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart, Poulenc, Villa-Lobos, and more.

Immerse yourself in an affordable cultural celebration where exceptional artists bring timeless compositions to life. Join us for an unforgettable musical journey.

The festival ran in two parts, 6 to 10 Feb and 20 to 24 Feb 2024.

Brunswick Beethoven Festival composers and musicians
Brunswick Beethoven Festival logo
Seraphim Trio perform at the Brunswick Beethoven festival

Seraphim Trio (pictured) perform part of Concert 7 of the Brunswick Beethoven Festival

2024 Program

Part 1

Select one of the boxes below. For each event select “Book now” and a new tab will open for you to book your tickets securely online.

If you purchase a half or full festival pass, you only need to do this once.

8pm Tuesday 6 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church, 212 Sydney Road, Brunswick

Invictus String Quartet works by Joaquín Turina

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Program:

The Bullfighter’s Prayer- Joaquin Turina
Beethoven: String Quartet No.8, Op.59 No.2

About Invictus Quartet:

Invictus Quartet is a group of four young women who are passionate about connecting with people through music of all genres.

Their goal is to blur the lines between different styles and redefine what classical instruments can do (did someone say rap on violin?). When Invictus are not on stage, you can find them brainstorming their next classical/pop mashup, making videos and going on food adventures!

Book now

8pm Thursday 8 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church, 212 Sydney Road, Brunswick

Josephine Vains, Cello and Berta Brozgul, Piano.

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Program:
Beethoven Cello Sonata Op102 No 2 in D Major and Rachmaninov Cello Sonata

About Josephine Vains:

A versatile cellist who has collaborated with various artists, spanning piano trios, quartets, quintets, string quartets, operas, baroque ensembles, contemporary and electronic music, and Argentine tango. As a founding member of Firebird Trio, Josephine presents innovative and engaging programs across Australia.

Her musical expertise extends to both modern and period instruments, and she frequently performs and records with renowned ensembles such as the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra, Kammermusik, Accademia Arcadia, Ludovico’s Band, Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra, Elysium Ensemble, and Melbourne Baroque Orchestra.

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About Berta Brozgul:

Born into a musical family in South Africa, she relocated to Australia at 12. Berta has emerged as a eclectic and thrilling performer, showcasing her talent as a soloist, chamber musician, and accompanist.

With numerous accolades, Berta has graced stages across Australia, collaborating with renowned orchestras, including the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she contributes her artistry as a member of the award-winning Clarendon Trio. In 2023 Berta made her concerto debut with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

Book now

8pm Friday 9 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Massimo Scattolin Classical Guitarist with works by Daniel Fortea, Villa-Lobos and Albeniz plus works written by Massimo in tribute to his times in Australia.

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Program:

Daniel Fortea: Malagueñas
Massimo Scattolin: Mildura (Composed in Australia)
Canzone d’autunno (Autumn song)
Iatango (Composed in Australia)
Hejtor Vlla-Lobos: Chôro n.1
Massimo Scattolin: Murray river (Composed in Australia)
Come bianche bandiere (Like white flags)
Rain (Composed in Australia)
Neve (Snow)
Isaac Albeniz: Asturias
Massimo Scattolin: Bodatango
Gol Gol Bird Song (Composed in Australia)

About Massimo Scattolin:

After multiple meetings with Andres Segovia, Massimo Scattolin initiated his solo concert career, expanding into chamber music and orchestral activities, including renowned guitar concertos by composers like Astor Piazzolla and Violet Archer.

Acclaimed by critics as one of the finest guitarists of our era, Massimo has gained recognition across Europe, Asia, Australia, China, and the Americas. He collaborates with esteemed musicians, participates in international festivals, and is the first Italian guitarist to conduct master classes at the “Mozarteum” in Salzburg.

Massimo has released numerous solo and collaborative recordings, working with artists ranging from violinists and cellists to renowned ensembles like Grupo Compay Segundo from Buena Vista Social Club. As the founder of the Paganini Consort and Guitarland ensembles, he demonstrates his musical prowess on a “lattice braced guitar” crafted by the Italian maker Enzo Guido.

Book now

8pm Saturday 10 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Stefan Cassomenos and Monica Curro works by Messiaen, Poulenc and Beethoven Sonata.

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Program:

MESSIAEN Theme & Variations (1932)
POULENC Sonata for Violin & Piano (1942-43)
BEETHOVEN Sonata No 7 for Piano & Violin in C minor, Op 30/2 (1801-03)
 
About Stefan Cassomenos:
 
Melbourne pianist and composer Stefan Cassomenos, a dynamic and versatile musician, started his international career at age 10.
 
With over 20 years of experience representing Australia globally, he is recognised as one of the country’s leading pianists. Cassomenos, born in 1985, gave the world premiere of his Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra at 16.
 
His extensive concerto repertoire has led to engagements with renowned orchestras worldwide. As a grand finalist in the International Telekom Beethoven Piano Competition Bonn in 2013, Cassomenos received acclaim and awards.
 
A sought-after chamber musician, he regularly performs at international venues and festivals. Founder of the successful ensemble PLEXUS, Cassomenos has commissioned over 100 composers and given numerous world premieres.
 
 
About Monica Curro:
 
A prominent violinist, Monica Curro boasts a remarkable 19-year tenure as Assistant Principal 2nd Violin with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
 
A former Australian Chamber Orchestra core member, she earned her Bachelor of Music Degree from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in 1987. She completed her Masters Degree at Michigan State University in 1991 under Walter Verdehr’s guidance.
 
Monica’s extensive orchestral experience includes roles with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, West Australian Symphony Orchestra, and The Auckland Chamber Orchestra.
 
A dedicated educator, Monica serves on the Board of Directors of the Australian Youth Orchestra and tutors for their programs while contributing to various educational institutions.
 
She is a valued member of the Australian World Orchestra and a founding member of the contemporary ensemble PLEXUS, which has premiered 64 new works since its inception in 2014.
 

Part 2

Past concerts

8pm Tuesday 6 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church, 212 Sydney Road, Brunswick

Invictus String Quartet works by Joaquín Turina

Program:

The Bullfighter’s Prayer- Joaquin Turina
Beethoven: String Quartet No.8, Op.59 No.2

About Invictus Quartet:

Invictus Quartet is a group of four young women who are passionate about connecting with people through music of all genres.

Their goal is to blur the lines between different styles and redefine what classical instruments can do (did someone say rap on violin?). When Invictus are not on stage, you can find them brainstorming their next classical/pop mashup, making videos and going on food adventures!

8pm Thursday 8 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church, 212 Sydney Road, Brunswick

Josephine Vains, Cello and Berta Brozgul, Piano.

Program:
Beethoven Cello Sonata Op102 No 2 in D Major and Rachmaninov Cello Sonata

About Josephine Vains:

A versatile cellist who has collaborated with various artists, spanning piano trios, quartets, quintets, string quartets, operas, baroque ensembles, contemporary and electronic music, and Argentine tango. As a founding member of Firebird Trio, Josephine presents innovative and engaging programs across Australia.

Her musical expertise extends to both modern and period instruments, and she frequently performs and records with renowned ensembles such as the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra, Kammermusik, Accademia Arcadia, Ludovico’s Band, Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra, Elysium Ensemble, and Melbourne Baroque Orchestra.

About Berta Brozgul:

Born into a musical family in South Africa, she relocated to Australia at 12. Berta has emerged as a eclectic and thrilling performer, showcasing her talent as a soloist, chamber musician, and accompanist.

With numerous accolades, Berta has graced stages across Australia, collaborating with renowned orchestras, including the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she contributes her artistry as a member of the award-winning Clarendon Trio. In 2023 Berta made her concerto debut with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

8pm Friday 9 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Massimo Scattolin Classical Guitarist with works by Daniel Fortea, Villa-Lobos and Albeniz plus works written by Massimo in tribute to his times in Australia.

Program:

Daniel Fortea: Malagueñas
Massimo Scattolin: Mildura (Composed in Australia)
Canzone d’autunno (Autumn song)
Iatango (Composed in Australia)
Hejtor Vlla-Lobos: Chôro n.1
Massimo Scattolin: Murray river (Composed in Australia)
Come bianche bandiere (Like white flags)
Rain (Composed in Australia)
Neve (Snow)
Isaac Albeniz: Asturias
Massimo Scattolin: Bodatango
Gol Gol Bird Song (Composed in Australia)

About Massimo Scattolin:

After multiple meetings with Andres Segovia, Massimo Scattolin initiated his solo concert career, expanding into chamber music and orchestral activities, including renowned guitar concertos by composers like Astor Piazzolla and Violet Archer.

Acclaimed by critics as one of the finest guitarists of our era, Massimo has gained recognition across Europe, Asia, Australia, China, and the Americas. He collaborates with esteemed musicians, participates in international festivals, and is the first Italian guitarist to conduct master classes at the “Mozarteum” in Salzburg.

Massimo has released numerous solo and collaborative recordings, working with artists ranging from violinists and cellists to renowned ensembles like Grupo Compay Segundo from Buena Vista Social Club. As the founder of the Paganini Consort and Guitarland ensembles, he demonstrates his musical prowess on a “lattice braced guitar” crafted by the Italian maker Enzo Guido.

8pm Saturday 10 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Stefan Cassomenos and Monica Curro works by Messiaen, Poulenc and Beethoven Sonata.

Program:

MESSIAEN Theme & Variations (1932)
POULENC Sonata for Violin & Piano (1942-43)
BEETHOVEN Sonata No 7 for Piano & Violin in C minor, Op 30/2 (1801-03)
 
About Stefan Cassomenos:
 
Melbourne pianist and composer Stefan Cassomenos, a dynamic and versatile musician, started his international career at age 10.
 
With over 20 years of experience representing Australia globally, he is recognised as one of the country’s leading pianists. Cassomenos, born in 1985, gave the world premiere of his Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra at 16.
 
His extensive concerto repertoire has led to engagements with renowned orchestras worldwide. As a grand finalist in the International Telekom Beethoven Piano Competition Bonn in 2013, Cassomenos received acclaim and awards.
 
A sought-after chamber musician, he regularly performs at international venues and festivals. Founder of the successful ensemble PLEXUS, Cassomenos has commissioned over 100 composers and given numerous world premieres.
 
About Monica Curro:
 
A prominent violinist, Monica Curro boasts a remarkable 19-year tenure as Assistant Principal 2nd Violin with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
 
A former Australian Chamber Orchestra core member, she earned her Bachelor of Music Degree from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in 1987. She completed her Masters Degree at Michigan State University in 1991 under Walter Verdehr’s guidance.
 
Monica’s extensive orchestral experience includes roles with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, West Australian Symphony Orchestra, and The Auckland Chamber Orchestra.
 
A dedicated educator, Monica serves on the Board of Directors of the Australian Youth Orchestra and tutors for their programs while contributing to various educational institutions.
 
She is a valued member of the Australian World Orchestra and a founding member of the contemporary ensemble PLEXUS, which has premiered 64 new works since its inception in 2014.
 

8pm Tuesday 20 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Elyane Laussade, Piano plays Fantasies and Dreams.

Works by Mozart, Schubert Wanderer, J.S.Bach, Stuart Greenbaum, Faure/Grainger, Liszt and Verdi/Liszt

Program:

W. A. Mozart – Fantasy in C Minor K. 475

Schubert Wanderer – Fantasy in Opus 15

J. S. Bach – Chromatic Fantasy BWV 903

Stuart Greenbaum – The Dream from Ice Man

Fauré/Grainger – Après un Rêve

Franz Liszt – Liebestraum No. 3

Verdi/Liszt – Rigoletto Fantasy

About Elyane Laussade:

Elyane Laussade, a Juilliard School graduate, has mesmerised audiences across five continents with her distinctive and imaginative piano playing. Hailing from the USA, she is now celebrated as one of Australia’s premier performers, having graced stages with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and featured on ABC Classic FM and 3MBS. Elyane’s soloist career spans numerous countries, and as a recording artist, she has released captivating works, including “Just for You” and “Humanation.”

Currently embarking on the Mozart Project, performing all 27 piano concertos across Australia, Elyane is equally engaged in chamber music, reflecting her passion for intimate musical experiences.

Laussade also hosts special recitals in her Melbourne studio, showcasing solo and collaborative performances with Australian and international musicians.

8pm Wednesday 21 Feb 2024

Brunswick Christ Church 8 Glenlyon Rd Brunswick

Program:

Organ

Overture Consecration of the House Op. 124 Ludwig van Beethoven Transcribed by Anthony Halliday

Concerto in C Major, BWV 594 – After Vivaldi by Johann Sebastian Bach

(Please note that in place of the Prelude and Fugue B-A-C-H by Franz Liszt, Dr. Anthony Halliday will be performing the Concerto in C Major, BWV 594 by Johann Sebastian Bach, arranged after Vivaldi.)

Piano

The Chapel of William Tell Franz Liszt

The Fountains of the Villa d’Este Franz Liszt

Sonata in C minor Op. 111 Ludwig Van Beethoven

Introductory Sonnet read by Bishop Lindsay Urwin

About Dr Anthony Halliday:

Anthony Halliday is a world-renowned composer who has performed for audiences in Berlin, Rome, and London to name a few.

He also recorded all 32 Sonatas for Piano by Beethoven.

8pm Thursday 22 February 2024

Bar is open from 7pm

Tempo Rubato 34 Breese Street, Brunswick

Laura Vaughan, Baryton & Katie Yap, Viola & Josephine Vains, Cello.

Explore the enchanting and distinctive world of the baryton with The Gryphon Baryton Trio.

This rare Classical-era instrument, resembling a viola da gamba but adorned with an extra course of 11 metal strings, produces mesmerising melodies enveloped in a lush, resonant ambience.

Cherished by Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy, who inspired Haydn to compose over 130 works, the baryton takes centre stage in Haydn’s elegant and charming Divertimenti, often known as ‘Baryton Trios.’

Imbued with inventiveness and vibrant colours, these delightful pieces showcase the baryton’s pivotal role in creating beautiful sonorities when harmonising with lower instruments.

Program:

4 Haydn Baryton Trios in A major Hob Hob XI:66 , G major 59, B minor 96 and D major 97

8pm Friday 23 February 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Program:

Piano Trio Op 11 Gassenhauer and Piano Trio Op 1 No 2 in G major.
 
About Seraphim Trio:
 
The Seraphim Trio, originating in Adelaide in 1995, embodies a chamber ensemble and a lasting lifelong friendship. The enduring collaboration of its current members—Helen Ayres, Tim Nankervis, and Anna Goldsworthy—dates back to 1998, fostering a remarkable connection that transcends musical performance.
 
Seraphim Trio is celebrated for its versatility. Collaborations with artists like violinist Andrew Haveron and street artist Peter Drew showcase their innovative spirit. Their 2019 recording, Thirteen Ways to Look at Birds, with Paul Kelly, James Ledger, and Alice Keath, earned an ARIA award.

8pm Saturday 24 Feb 2024

Brunswick Uniting Church 212 Sydney Rd Brunswick

Sergio de Pieri OAM works by Chopin.

Program:

Night of Chopin waltzing with Sergio

5 Waltzes by Frederick Chopin
Waltz 1 Op 69 No 1
Waltz 2 Op 70 No 1
Waltz 3 Op 69 No 2
Waltz in E minor Posthumous
Waltz in C Sharp Minor Op 64 No 2

Nocturne Op 27 No 1
Nocturne Op 9 No 1

Etudes Op 25 No 1

Impromptu Op,29 No 1
Ballata No 1 in G minor Op 23

About Sergio de Pieri OAM:

Hailing from the picturesque town of Treviso, Italy, Sergio’s remarkable talent led him to Australia in 1961. Throughout his illustrious career, he played a vital role in igniting local enthusiasm for the organ and its authentic repertoire.

As the esteemed organist of St. Patrick’s Cathedral from 1962-72 and Chief Study Lecturer at the Conservatorium of Music at the University of Melbourne, Sergio significantly shaped the Australian musical landscape. In 1966, he captivated audiences with a star-studded performance alongside the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. His passion for the instrument led him to establish the internationally acclaimed Organ and Harpsichord Festival in Melbourne in 1970.

Sergio’s outstanding musicianship and dedication were further solidified when he assumed the role of Chair and Principal Teacher of Organ at the Conservatorium from 1972-92, while also gracing the hallowed halls of Venice’s renowned Basilica dei Frari as their organist.

Upon his return to Australia in 1992, Sergio continued his mission to champion the organ, founding the Organs of the Ballarat Goldfields Festival and serving as its Artistic Director until the pandemic. He extended his influence to the Murray River International Festival during the same period. Additionally, sixteen years ago, he founded the highly regarded Brunswick Beethoven Festival.

With a vast discography, including Early Italian music, Bach, Romantic, modern compositions, and his own creations, Sergio de Pieri invites you to embrace a transcendent musical experience that will thrill and inspire the music lover in you. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to celebrate a lifetime devoted to the organ and its legacy.

Brunswick Beethoven Festival

welcomes everyone

Brunswick Beethoven Festival is held in the City of Merri-bek (formerly Moreland). 

In the inner north of Melbourne, the festival aims to provide audiences of all ages and backgrounds with an opportunity to enjoy classical music and contemporary for a night to remember.

This year, we return, bringing internationally and locally acclaimed talents.

Ticket prices are designed to be affordable:

  • Students $20
  • Concession $25
  • General $35

 

Purchase our 2024 Festival Pass

You can also purchase a full festival pass for $250 to attend as many concerts as you wish. Or a half pass for 4 concerts at $125. This can be purchased on any of the concert pages.

Brunswick Beethoven Music festival in City of Merri-bek

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Brunswick Beethoven Festival

thanks its supporters

This festival would not be possible without the dedication and support of our volunteers and these key organisations.

Sergio de Pieri OAM
Invictus String Quartet at Brunswick Beethvoen Festival
Stefan Cassomenos performs at Brunswick musical festival

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For media or event enquiries contact President Mark Higginbotham on 0438 384 574 or email.

We acknowledge the Tradtional Owners of the land this festival operates of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung. We pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and emerging.