International violinist brings world-class performance to Moree community

Residents across the New England North West will have the opportunity to experience a world-class classical music performance when internationally acclaimed Australian violinist Jonathon Glonek performs in Moree on Saturday, 8 August.

Supported by Arts North West and presented by the Bendoc Philharmonic, the concert at Social Co House is designed to make high-quality live classical music accessible to regional audiences. The performance will feature works by Bach, Paganini and Ysaÿe, alongside a rare performance of Scheherazade’s Dreams by Ukrainian composer Mikhail Shukh.

The event aims to strengthen cultural opportunities in the region while inspiring local musicians and introducing new audiences to classical music. With free admission for people under 18, it also provides young people with the chance to experience a professional live performance close to home.

Scheherazade’s Dreams has particular significance for Glonek, who first met Shukh while performing with the Kyiv Festival Symphony in Kyiv in 2002. The two developed a lasting friendship, with Shukh later composing the technically demanding work specifically for Glonek. Inspired by Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, the work reimagines familiar themes through a contemporary lens while remaining grounded in the classical tradition.

Arts North West executive director Lauren Mackley said creating opportunities for regional communities to experience high-quality arts was central to the organisation’s work.

“Regional audiences deserve access to exceptional live performances, and we’re delighted to support Jonathon Glonek’s visit to Moree. Bringing internationally recognised artists to our communities enriches our cultural life, inspires local musicians and demonstrates that world-class arts experiences can happen right here in regional NSW.”

Glonek said performing in regional communities remained one of the most rewarding parts of his career.

“Performing in regional communities is always a privilege. There is something incredibly special about sharing live music in places where audiences are genuinely engaged and eager to experience something unique. I’m looking forward to visiting Moree and presenting a program that celebrates some of the greatest works ever written for the violin while introducing audiences to the extraordinary music of Mikhail Shukh.”

He said expanding access to live classical music outside metropolitan centres was a key motivation for the tour.

“Classical music is a gift that should be available to everyone, yet opportunities to hear it live outside our major cities can be limited. This tour is about ensuring regional audiences can experience some of the world’s greatest music, performed at the highest level, in their own communities.”

Glonek has performed throughout Australia, Europe, Asia and the United States and is recognised as one of Australia’s leading concert violinists. His Moree performance reflects a shared commitment by Arts North West and the Bendoc Philharmonic to ensure regional communities have access to high-quality cultural experiences.

Arts North West encourages residents from across the New England North West to take part in the event and support live performance in the region.