Mackay Chamber Music Festival

A Regional Gem Bringing World-Class Classical Performances Home

For seven years now, the Mackay Chamber Music Festival has been quietly transforming the cultural landscape of this regional city, uniting Australia’s finest classical musicians for a weekend of intimate performances and vibrant community music-making.

From July 18 to 20, the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Ooralea will come alive with the sounds of world-class chamber music, performed by celebrated artists including the guitar virtuosos Slava and Sharon Grigoryan, the dynamic Orava Quartet, and Brisbane’s innovative folk-classical ensemble The Boxties.

At the heart of this festival is local violinist Glenn Christensen, whose journey began in Mackay’s own music classrooms. Glenn’s vision was to give back to the community that nurtured his love for music and to open doors for regional students who rarely get the chance to experience performances of such calibre.

“Chamber music is about small groups of musicians playing some of the best classical music there is – without a conductor, everyone takes ownership, and the performances are wonderfully intimate,” Glenn explains.

Having carved out a successful career abroad, Glenn recently returned home to take up the role of Associate Concertmaster with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Yet his heart remains firmly rooted in Mackay. Each year, the festival attracts top Australian talent who eagerly give back through workshops, masterclasses, and collaborations with young local musicians — fostering the next generation of artists right here in the region.

This year’s stellar line-up features some true luminaries:

• Slava Grigoryan, hailed as a "wizard" of the guitar and a classical music virtuoso renowned worldwide.
• Sharon Grigoryan, Associate Principal Cello with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, performing alongside her husband Slava in a captivating cello-guitar duo.
• Stefanie Farrands, Principal Viola of the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
• Doretta Balkizas, an accomplished Australian violinist and University of Queensland lecturer.
• The Orava Quartet, an award-winning young ensemble celebrated as “the future of Australian chamber music.”
• Stewart Kelly, pianist and artistic director known for his work with Victoria’s Music by the Springs festival.
• The Boxties, a Brisbane-based group blending classical, folk, and contemporary styles, collaborating with Mackay school choirs and string players.
• Angela Turner, a distinguished Australian pianist leading masterclasses and mentoring the winner of the Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship.**

“Many regional students don’t often get to see professional musicians perform or benefit from masterclasses. So bringing these experiences to Mackay is vital to nurturing local talent,” added Glenn.

Reflecting on the festival’s growth, Glenn fondly recalls its humble beginnings.

“Our first festival was held in the Masonic Hall with no stage. We had to bring a piano all the way from Melbourne and set up chairs ourselves. Now, we’re proud to host the event at the Central Queensland Conservatorium with a professional 200-seat venue.”

Beyond the music, the festival supports the Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship, established to honour a beloved local music teacher by aiding young pianists in their development.

Despite financial hurdles, the festival flourishes thanks to passionate local business sponsors and volunteers who believe in the transformative power of music.

Glenn invites everyone, both music lovers and novices alike to come along.

“Classical music is for everyone. It’s not stuffy or inaccessible; it’s down-to-earth, fun, and full of life.

“Each concert offers a completely different program, so there’s something for everyone.”

Tickets are available now at mackaycmf.com.au or by calling the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music on +61 74940 7800.

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