Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute

In Conversation with Lucas Jordan
2024-02-21 18:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute, 117-119 Sturt Street, Ballarat Central, VIC, 3350, Australia
Melbourne Guitar Quartet

August 30

@

7:30 pm

-

8:30 pm

$33 – $36.30

Minerva Space

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Melbourne Guitar Quartet (MGQ)

Expanding the sound world of the classical guitar

Celebrating two decades at the forefront of Australian chamber music, the Melbourne Guitar Quartet has established itself as one of the country’s most distinctive and dynamic ensembles. Renowned for their rich, orchestral sound and innovative arrangements, MGQ brings a fresh perspective to guitar performance through their use of the full Guitar Family of instruments — including classical bass, baritone, standard, treble, and octave guitars.

Formed in 2005, MGQ has captivated audiences across Australia with their vibrant stage presence, technical precision, and artistic vision. Their repertoire spans everything from reimagined classics to contemporary works, often enhanced by subtle percussion textures. As one of only two quartets in the country dedicated to this idiom, MGQ continues to redefine what’s possible within the guitar ensemble tradition.

The group has released four critically acclaimed albums: Four Elements (2008) Toccata (2010), launched to a sold-out audience at the Adelaide International Guitar Festival In Colour (2014), a thematic exploration of Spanish and impressionistic repertoire Blood Oath (2020), featuring works by Arvo Pärt, Robert Davidson, Philip Glass, and Pēteris Vasks.

Their interpretations have drawn praise from leading composers and performers: “I rediscovered my music… under your fingers.”— Francis Kleynjans “Rhythmic vitality and a groove that would put many percussion ensembles to shame.”— Nigel Westlake “Exactly what the classical guitar world needs.”— Slava Grigoryan MGQ’s mission is simple: to bring the sound of the guitar quartet to new audiences, through bold programming, refined musicianship, and a commitment to musical excellence.

The Program

Fratres – Arvo PartWinter in the Forgotten Valley – Nigel WestlakeMishima – Philip GlassOpals – Phillip Houghton

This performance is part of a special fundraising effort to suport the Melbourne Guitar Quartet's upcoming international tour in 2026

The tour will include performances across the USA, as well as featured appearances at the Seattle, Liverpool, and Sydney Guitar Festivals. All funds raised will go directly toward covering essential tour costs, including international travel, visa processing, and accommodation expenses.

The Musicians

Curent Members Dan McKay – Sophie Marcheff – Benjamin Dix – Rose Gonzalez

MGQ proudly performs on Hannabach strings and gratefully acknowledges the support of Hannabach GmbH and Payton’s Music.

Tickets General Admission $36.30 | Group discount for a block of 4 or more tickets (ages 8 plus) $33 includes gst, booking fee additional. Tickets not available from the Library Box Office.

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This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work, learn and create. Always Was, Always Will Be, Aboriginal Land.

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