An intimate and eclectic program featuring the quintet of Claire Edwardes (percussion/artistic director), Benjamin Kopp (piano), Lamorna Nightingale (flutes), Jason Noble (clarinets), and Will Hansen (double bass), Mesmerism features 5 dynamic works from living composers.

Ensemble Offspring will present a new arrangement of local hero Melody Eötvös’s duo celebrating the tiny water bear, the Tardigradus, for flute and vibraphone. Andrea Keller’s Love in Solitude was written for the group in 2016 as a result of winning the Merlyn Myer Commission and combines manipulated samples of the performers on stage with poignant text from Rainer Maria Rilke. Jessica Wells’ arrangement of Paul Mac’s 2019 electronica release Mesmerism is something to behold live.

4.5 stars “This vibrant and, yes, mesmerising work has become a favourite party piece for Ensemble Offspring…It’s a joyous conclusion.” Harriet Cunningham, Limelight Magazine

“It is like an invocation, chords hanging in the air for a moment before the arrival of a lively perpetuo moto which showcases the virtuoso chops of the five-piece ensemble.” Harriet Cunningham, Limelight Magazine

“Perfect program for the lockdown era.” Peter McCallum, Sydney Morning Herald