The Lux Australis Ensemble performs their inaugural work, eponymously titled Lux Australis by Elena Kats-Chernin AO on the eve of the Melbourne Art Fair 2024.
Date
21st February, 2024
Location
Chapter House
L2/195 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
A transformative and uplifting musical performance, supported by RATIONALE and the Melbourne Art Fair.
A string orchestra is in six contrasting movements reflecting the Six Essential Human Qualities of Resilience, Vitality, Brilliance, Integrity, Clarity and Renewal.
Following the performance, Artistic
Director Richard Parker will interview Composer Elena Kats Chernin and Conductor Luke Severn about the inspiration, creation and performance of this work.
This performance was part of Melbourne Art Fair LATE NIGHTS presented byBroadsheet.
LUX AUSTRALIS is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to
furthering Australian performing arts.
Elena Kats-Chernin received training at the Gnessin Musical College before immigrating to Australia in 1975. She graduated from the New South Wales Conservatorium of Music in 1980.
Elena Kats-Chernin has created works in nearly every genre. Among her many commissions are pieces for Ensemble Modern, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian World Orchestra, the Adelaide, Tasmanian, Melbourne and Sydney Symphony Orchestras, the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, City of London Sinfonia, Swedish Chamber Orchestra and the North Carolina Symphony.
Luke Severn is an accomplished concert cellist, composer, and conductor, known for his expressive performances and dynamic presence in the Australian music scene. A sought-after chamber musician, he has performed at festivals and chamber music series across Australia, Europe, and North America. Notably, Luke has toured North America alongside violinist Andrew Sords and pianist Cheryl Duval, performing works by Brahms and Beethoven. His 2019 New York City debut featured a collaboration with NYC-based composer and pianist Evan Fein as part of a recital tour on both U.S. coasts.
As a composer, Luke’s work demonstrates a deep emotional connection to time, place, and human experience, often focusing on chamber ensembles. His music has been performed internationally, and he has composed for leading Australian musicians, including pianists Yasmin Rowe and Elyane Laussade. Luke has upcoming commissions for orchestras and choirs, including a Concerto for Saxophone and Orchestra. In 2019, he became the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Bendigo Symphony Orchestra and leads Melbourne Masterclasses, offering musical training both in person and online. He also teaches privately and directs several community music initiatives.
