There will be melodies to melt the winter chill at the 20th Woodend Winter Arts Festival. From festival exclusives to international acts, homegrown talent to a special family friendly performance, there truly is something for everyone at this year’s event.
Opening night sets the tone for a big weekend as Italy meets Ireland in a cross-cultural concert by Arparla, featuring Davide Monti (violin) and Maria Christina Cleary (harp). The Friday night will also see Melbourne’s late-night jazz scene land in Woodend as Chris Johnstone and Mat Jodrell bring the soul, backed by Ben Hanlon on bass and Danny Fischer on drums.
On Saturday, Trio Anima Mundi makes their WWAF debut with an exploration of Trio Phantasies, while Lamiae Naki and her ensemble Seffarine will perform a WWAF exclusive. Originating from Fez, Morocco, their performance blends flamenco dance, Arabic oud, Gnawa basslines, and Lamiae’s captivating Moroccan Arabic vocals.
Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia will perform two concerts of Purcell’s Ode to St Cecilia. And you can let the sounds of Handel wash over you across two performances featuring Accademia Arcadia, led by Davide Monti, with soloists Maria Christina Cleary (harp) John O’Donnell (organ).
On Sunday, Spanish Connections by Ken Murray will showcase the diverse influences on the Spanish guitar over the past century, while pianist Berta Brozgul will perform masterpieces by Mozart, Chopin, Scriabin and Brahms.
On Monday, Inventi Ensemble will perform an enchanting, family friendly performance of Cinderella, while 8 Cellos return for a mesmerising concert. Rounding out the program, in another WWAF exclusive, direct from Vienna, violinist Anne Harvey-Nagl joins pianist John O’Donnell for an unforgettable performance of Brahms’ three sonatas for piano and violin.
The music program is supported by an insightful and though-provoking Words and Ideas program. WWAF takes place from June 6-9, tickets are on sale now at woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
