Brisbane’s chamber music scene welcomes a fresh and dynamic addition as Collectivo, a new ensemble founded by renowned oboist Tania Frazer, prepares to launch its 2025 concert series at Queensland Ballet’s Thomas Dixon Centre in West End.
Designed to offer a boutique, salon-style experience, the ensemble will feature a rotating lineup of virtuoso musicians performing in an intimate setting.
A Vision for Intimate and World-Class Chamber Music
Unlike traditional fixed ensembles, Collectivo brings together exceptional artists from across Australia and New Zealand in unique collaborations for each performance. Ms Frazer’s vision, described as “where artistry meets intimacy,” aims to give audiences an up-close experience, with seating just metres from the performers.
Set in the Charles Lisner Studio at the Thomas Dixon Centre, the venue’s acoustics and intimate atmosphere provide an ideal space for chamber music, enhancing both the sound quality and audience connection.
2025 Concert Series Lineup and Program
The 2025 season will feature four concerts, each showcasing a different selection of artists and repertoire:
- Concert 1 – “Tree of Life” (March 15)
- Concert 2 – “The Troubadours” (July 26)
- Concert 3 – “Timeless Voices” (September 13)
- Concert 4 – “The Garden of Dreams” (November 1)
The inaugural concert, “Tree of Life,” will include:
- Andrew Haveron (Sydney Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster)
- Eden Shifroni (2024 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition winner)
- Vatche Jambazian (pianist)
- Rachel Siu (cellist)
- Tania Frazer (artistic director & oboe soloist)
Future performances will welcome other high-profile musicians, including Slava Grigoryan, Satu Vänskä, Emily Sun, Amalia Hall, and Paavali Jumppanen.
Frazer’s Creative Freedom and Expanding Repertoire
Having previously led Southern Cross Soloists and Bangalow Music Festival, Ms Frazer sees Collectivo as a chance to pursue artistic freedom and innovation. Unlike government-funded ensembles, Collectivo operates independently, allowing Ms Frazer to curate performances without external constraints.
Her passion extends to expanding the oboe’s repertoire, incorporating works not traditionally played on the instrument. One of her personal challenges includes tackling Artie Shaw’s clarinet concerto, a piece requiring octave glisses and extended high notes, techniques rarely explored by oboists.
Ticketing and Subscription Options
With limited seating, Collectivo offers exclusive subscription packages:
- Four, Three, or Two Concert Subscriptions with savings on single ticket prices.
- Single tickets also available for each concert.
For accessible seating and ticketing enquiries, audiences can contact (07) 3013 6666.
Each performance lasts approximately two hours and 10 minutes, including a 20-minute interval, and is suitable for all ages.
With its debut set for 15 March 2025, Collectivo is poised to redefine chamber music experiences in Brisbane. Offering world-class talent in a uniquely intimate setting, the ensemble is set to become a standout addition to West End’s vibrant arts scene.
Published 26-Feb-2025