Strong community support has set a promising tone for the New England Bach Festival’s 2027 fundraising campaign, officially launched at a well-attended concert that drew 130 supporters.
Held as both a musical showcase and campaign kickoff, the event featured co-directors Sheila Guymer and Camilla Tafra performing works by J.S. Bach and Antonio Vivaldi. The performance reflected the festival’s musician-led ethos while underscoring its commitment to bringing high-quality classical music to regional audiences.
The launch marks the beginning of a broader fundraising effort that will combine public donations, grant funding and regional sponsorship. Early contributions through the Australian Cultural Fund (ACF) have already signalled strong momentum, with organisers encouraged by the level of community engagement.
“The warmth and enthusiasm in the room were incredibly moving,” Ms Guymer said. “There’s a real sense that the community is behind this festival, appreciative of its history, and excited about what’s to come.”
The evening also provided an opportunity to unveil key artists for the 2027 program. Among those announced was nationally renowned choral conductor Elizabeth Scott, who will take on the role of Conductor-in-Residence. Baroque violinist Alice Rickards is also set to return to her hometown of Armidale, while the newly formed Armidale-based chamber orchestra, Ensemble Apsley, has been named Ensemble-in-Residence.
Festival organisers say these appointments reflect a deliberate focus on both artistic excellence and regional connection, with many performers maintaining strong ties to the New England area.
“We’ll be bringing together musicians who are not only nationally outstanding, but many of whom have deep personal connections to Armidale,” Ms Tafra said. “They’re really looking forward to sharing their musical artistry with local audiences.”
In addition to celebrating future plans, the launch also paid tribute to the festival’s past. Former director Benjamin Thorn was acknowledged for his two decades of leadership and the lasting impact he has had on the event’s growth and reputation.
Building on that legacy, the 2027 festival will feature a blend of Baroque masterpieces alongside new works by Armidale-based composers, placing local creativity at the centre of the program. Organisers say this approach aims to honour tradition while fostering contemporary artistic expression within the region.
The New England Bach Festival has long been recognised for its role in enriching the cultural life of regional New South Wales, with a focus on celebrating the music of J.S. Bach and his contemporaries. Through performances, collaborations and educational opportunities, the festival continues to build a vibrant and engaged musical community.
Funds raised through the ACF campaign will play a crucial role in delivering the 2027 program, supporting everything from artist engagement to event production. Donations of more than $2 are tax-deductible, with organisers encouraging supporters to contribute if they are able.
Further artist announcements and program details are expected to be released as planning continues, with anticipation already building following the successful launch.
With strong early backing and a clear artistic vision, the New England Bach Festival appears well-positioned to deliver another memorable celebration of music in 2027.
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