Steel City Strings
Steel City Strings is a classical​ string orchestra showcasing talented professional musicians from the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Highlands regions.
Winner of the 2019 APRA/AMCOS Art Music award for Excellence in a Region and Commitment to performing Australian Music. With the film 'The Passion of Music' made about them, the orchestra is continuing to capture attention, praise and publicity.
FOREST BATHING BOWRAL MEMORIAL HALL
Sunday 14 September 2025
FOREST BATHING or shinrin-yoku draws on the Japanese concept of finding renewal within the natural landscape, the physical and psychological benefits of which are well documented. The repertoire in this concert reflects the beauty of the natural world, from the majestic stillness of a forest to the tumultuous roar of a coastal landscape. Music by Elena Kats-Chernin, Peter Sculthorpe and Brenda Gifford will offer respite from the hectic pace of the modern world, creating tranquil spaces for self-reflection, perhaps the essential wellsprings of mindfulness.
BOWRAL MEMORIAL HALL
FOREST BATHING WOLLONGONG
Saturday 20 September 2025
FOREST BATHING or shinrin-yoku draws on the Japanese concept of finding renewal within the natural landscape, the physical and psychological benefits of which are well documented. The repertoire in this concert reflects the beauty of the natural world, from the majestic stillness of a forest to the tumultuous roar of a coastal landscape. Music by Elena Kats-Chernin, Peter Sculthorpe and Brenda Gifford will offer respite from the hectic pace of the modern world, creating tranquil spaces for self-reflection, perhaps the essential wellsprings of mindfulness.
WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY
FOREST BATHING NOWRA SCHOOL OF ARTS
Sunday 21 September 2025
FOREST BATHING or shinrin-yoku draws on the Japanese concept of finding renewal within the natural landscape, the physical and psychological benefits of which are well documented. The repertoire in this concert reflects the beauty of the natural world, from the majestic stillness of a forest to the tumultuous roar of a coastal landscape. Music by Elena Kats-Chernin, Peter Sculthorpe and Brenda Gifford will offer respite from the hectic pace of the modern world, creating tranquil spaces for self-reflection, perhaps the essential wellsprings of mindfulness.
NOWRA SCHOOL OF ARTS
ECHOES KIAMA PAVILION
Sunday 22 June 2025
ECHOES takes us on a journey through the rich cultures of our Asian neighbours, finding points of mutual attraction and dynamic interplay — a harmonious dialogue between not-so-distant lands. East will meet west in music by Anne Boyd, Julian Yu and Adrian Pertout, and amply illustrate how Australian music is the richer for this connection.
"When I first began visiting Australia in 2009, I was struck by its proximity to Asia — not just geographically, but culturally and historically. I started to uncover layers of exchange: ancient trade routes, waves of migration, and a deep, ongoing dialogue between cultures. As someone who lives and works within classical music, I became fascinated by how this interplay shaped the music being written here. I began to hear echoes of Asian traditions in the work of Australian composers. Echoes is my way of exploring and sharing this sonic conversation." — Adrian Davis, Artistic Director
Kiama Pavilion
ECHOES WOLLONGONG
Saturday 21 June 2025
ECHOES takes us on a journey through the rich cultures of our Asian neighbours, finding points of mutual attraction and dynamic interplay — a harmonious dialogue between not-so-distant lands. East will meet west in music by Anne Boyd, Julian Yu and Adrian Pertout, and amply illustrate how Australian music is the richer for this connection.
"When I first began visiting Australia in 2009, I was struck by its proximity to Asia — not just geographically, but culturally and historically. I started to uncover layers of exchange: ancient trade routes, waves of migration, and a deep, ongoing dialogue between cultures. As someone who lives and works within classical music, I became fascinated by how this interplay shaped the music being written here. I began to hear echoes of Asian traditions in the work of Australian composers. Echoes is my way of exploring and sharing this sonic conversation." — Adrian Davis, Artistic Director
WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY
ECHOES BOWRAL
Sunday 15 June 2025
ECHOES takes us on a journey through the rich cultures of our Asian neighbours, finding points of mutual attraction and dynamic interplay — a harmonious dialogue between not-so-distant lands. East will meet west in music by Anne Boyd, Julian Yu and Adrian Pertout, and amply illustrate how Australian music is the richer for this connection.
"When I first began visiting Australia in 2009, I was struck by its proximity to Asia — not just geographically, but culturally and historically. I started to uncover layers of exchange: ancient trade routes, waves of migration, and a deep, ongoing dialogue between cultures. As someone who lives and works within classical music, I became fascinated by how this interplay shaped the music being written here. I began to hear echoes of Asian traditions in the work of Australian composers. Echoes is my way of exploring and sharing this sonic conversation." — Adrian Davis, Artistic Director
Bowral Memorial Hall
Common Ground BERRY SCHOOL OF ARTS
Sunday 16 March 2025
COMMON GROUND considers the music that starts with vibrant cultures and their musical self-expression. The enduring legacy of folk music with its ancient rhythms and evocative melodies finds common ground in the present-day in works by Sandor Veress, Peter Sculthorpe and Gerard Brophy. Here, the music honours its origins while connecting with the rich tapestry of past traditions, shared in a sense of universal experience and belonging. A particular treat will be the haunting strains of a Balinese gamelan orchestra.
Berry School of Arts
Common Ground WOLLONGONG
Saturday 15 March 2025
COMMON GROUND considers the music that starts with vibrant cultures and their musical self-expression. The enduring legacy of folk music with its ancient rhythms and evocative melodies finds common ground in the present-day in works by Sandor Veress, Peter Sculthorpe and Gerard Brophy. Here, the music honours its origins while connecting with the rich tapestry of past traditions, shared in a sense of universal experience and belonging. A particular treat will be the haunting strains of a Balinese gamelan orchestra.
WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY
Common Ground BOWRAL
Sunday 9 March 2025
COMMON GROUND considers the music that starts with vibrant cultures and their musical self-expression. The enduring legacy of folk music with its ancient rhythms and evocative melodies finds common ground in the present-day in works by Sandor Veress, Peter Sculthorpe and Gerard Brophy. Here, the music honours its origins while connecting with the rich tapestry of past traditions, shared in a sense of universal experience and belonging. A particular treat will be the haunting strains of a Balinese gamelan orchestra.
Bowral Memorial Hall
Choral Riffs NOWRA
Sunday 22 September 2024
In "Choral Riffs", Steel City Strings is joined by con voci chamber choir and Wollcon Chamber Choir to sing a new work commissioned from Australian pianist and composer Sally Whitwell, as well as choral music by Eric Whitacre and Gabriel Fauré. Enjoy the beauty, colour and vibrancy of mixed voices singing as one, joined in harmonious partnership with the luxuriant sounds of Steel City Strings.
Nowra School of Arts
2024 SUBSCRIPTION | NOWRA/BERRY
Sunday 24 March 2024
This is where you can purchase a 2024 Subscription to All 3 Concerts in NOWRA/BERRY.
Concert 1: BERRY Sunday 24th March 2024 2pm - 4pm.
"IDENTITY - Beauty out of Darkness" traverses continents, centuries and cultures as it examines what it is to be human. Beginning with a powerful evocation of country in "Long Time Living Here" by acclaimed soprano/composer Deborah Cheetham-Fraillon, the program includes works by Gerald Finzi, Granville Bantock, and many more.
Concert 2: BERRY Sunday 16 June 2024 2pm - 4pm.
“REEL MUSIC” navigates a trail through cinematic classics such as Psycho, Cinema Paradiso, Pirates of the Caribbean, Riptide, and a commissioned work by Australian film composer Lauren Mercovich.
Concert 3: NOWRA Sunday 22 September 2024 2pm - 4pm.
In "CHORAL RIFFS" Steel City Strings is excited to collaborate with con voci and Wollcon Chamber Choir to present a new work by Australian composer Sally Whitwell, and choral works by Eric Whitacre, Gabriel Fauré and mo
Nowra School of Arts/Berry School of Arts
Choral Riffs WOLLONGONG
Saturday 21 September 2024
In "Choral Riffs", Steel City Strings is joined by con voci chamber choir and Wollcon Chamber Choir to sing a new work commissioned from Australian pianist and composer Sally Whitwell, as well as choral music by Eric Whitacre and Gabriel Fauré. Enjoy the beauty, colour and vibrancy of mixed voices singing as one, joined in harmonious partnership with the luxuriant sounds of Steel City Strings.
St Francis Xavier Cathedral
2024 SUBSCRIPTION | WOLLONGONG
Saturday 23 March 2024
This is where you can purchase a 2024 Subscription to All 3 Concerts in WOLLONGONG.
Concert 1: WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY Saturday 23 March 2024 7.30 - 9.30.
Beginning with a powerful evocation of country in "Long Time Living Here" by acclaimed soprano and composer Deborah Cheetham-Fraillon, "IDENTITY - Beauty out of Darkness" includes works by Gerald Finzi, Granville Bantock, Franz Schreker and many more.
Concert 2: WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY 22 June 2024 7.30 - 9.30.
“REEL MUSIC” navigates a trail through cinematic classics such as Psycho, Cinema Paradiso, Pirates of the Caribbean, Riptide, and a commissioned work by Australian film composer Lauren Mercovich.
Concert 3: ST FRANCIS XAVIER CATHEDRAL WOLLONGONG Saturday 21 September 2024 7.30pm - 9.30pm.
In "CHORAL RIFFS" Steel City Strings is excited to collaborate with con voci and Wollcon Chamber Choir to present a new work by Australian composer Sally Whitwell, and choral works by Eric Whitacre, Gabriel Fauré and more.
Wollongong Art Gallery/St Francis Xavier Cathedral
Choral Riffs BOWRAL
Sunday 15 September 2024
In "Choral Riffs", Steel City Strings is joined by con voci chamber choir and Wollcon Chamber Choir to sing a new work commissioned from Australian pianist and composer Sally Whitwell, as well as choral music by Eric Whitacre and Gabriel Fauré. Enjoy the beauty, colour and vibrancy of mixed voices singing as one, joined in harmonious partnership with the luxuriant sounds of Steel City Strings.
Bowral Memorial Hall
2024 SUBSCRIPTION | BOWRAL
Sunday 23 June 2024
This is where you can purchase a 2024 Subscription to the two Concerts in BOWRAL.
First Bowral concert: BOWRAL MEMORIAL HALL Sunday 23 June 2024 2pm - 4pm.
“REEL MUSIC” navigates a trail through cinematic classics such as Psycho, Cinema Paradiso, Pirates of the Caribbean, Riptide, and much much more. A commissioned work by Australian film composer Lauren Mercovich creates a soundscape for the imagination.
Second Bowral concert: BOWRAL MEMORIAL HALL Sunday 15 September 2024 2pm - 4pm.
In "CHORAL RIFFS" Steel City Strings is excited to collaborate with con voci and Wollcon Chamber Choir to present a new work by Australian composer Sally Whitwell, and choral works by Eric Whitacre, Gabriel Fauré and more. Experience the beauty, colour and vibrancy of mixed voices joined in harmonious partnership with the luxuriant sounds of Steel City Strings.
Bowral Memorial Hall
Reel Music BOWRAL
Sunday 23 June 2024
"Reel Music" navigates a trail through cinematic classics such as "Psycho", "Cinema Paradiso", "Pirates of the Caribbean", "Riptide" and much, much more. A commissioned work by Australian film composer Lauren Mercovich creates a soundscape for the imagination.
Bowral Memorial Hall
Reel Music WOLLONGONG
Saturday 22 June 2024
"Reel Music" navigates a trail through cinematic classics such as "Psycho", "Cinema Paradiso", "Pirates of the Caribbean", "Riptide" and much, much more. A commissioned work by Australian film composer Lauren Mercovich creates a soundscape for the imagination.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Reel Music BERRY
Sunday 16 June 2024
"Reel Music" navigates a trail through cinematic classics such as "Psycho", "Cinema Paradiso", "Pirates of the Caribbean", "Riptide" and much, much more. A commissioned work by Australian film composer Lauren Mercovich creates a soundscape for the imagination.
Berry School of Arts
IDENTITY: Beauty out of Darkness BERRY
Sunday 24 March 2024
"IDENTITY: Beauty out of Darkness" finds Steel City Strings traversing continents, centuries and cultures, beginning with "Long Time Living Here" by acclaimed soprano and composer Deborah Cheetham-Fraillon. Criss-crossing musical worlds, the program is rich in ideas and emotions, with works by Gerald Finzi, Granville Bantock and Franz Schreker.
Berry School of Arts
IDENTITY: Beauty out of Darkness WOLLONGONG
Saturday 23 March 2024
"IDENTITY: Beauty out of Darkness" finds Steel City Strings traversing continents, centuries and cultures, beginning with "Long Time Living Here" by acclaimed soprano and composer Deborah Cheetham-Fraillon. Criss-crossing musical worlds, the program is rich in ideas and emotions, with works by Gerald Finzi, Granville Bantock and Franz Schreker.
Wollongong Art Gallery
IDENTITY: Beauty out of Darkness SHELLHARBOUR
Sunday 17 March 2024
"IDENTITY: Beauty out of Darkness" finds Steel City Strings traversing continents, centuries and cultures, beginning with "Long Time Living Here" by acclaimed soprano and composer Deborah Cheetham-Fraillon. Criss-crossing musical worlds, the program is rich in ideas and emotions, with works by Gerald Finzi, Granville Bantock and Franz Schreker.
Shellharbour Civic Centre
Cellissimo! Wesley Music Centre
Saturday 24 February 2024
Introducing Cellissimo! CELLO QUARTET
The cellists of Steel City Strings will tantalise your musical tastebuds with a rich platter of musical morsels. You will be transported on a delectable journey from jewels of the Baroque all the way to Metallica and beyond.
What is better than a cello? Four wonderful cellists playing together!
We are thrilled to bring you Australia’s favourite instrument, as voted in 2023, to experience the cello’s lyrical and rich tonal range that so closely reflects the human voice.
” Without music [and the cello], life would be a mistake"
Friedrich Nietzsche, Twilight of the Idols
Wesley Music Centre
Cellissimo! Sts Peter and Paul's Old Cathedral GOULBURN
Friday 23 February 2024
Introducing Cellissimo! CELLO QUARTET
The cellists of Steel City Strings will tantalise your musical tastebuds with a rich platter of musical morsels. You will be transported on a delectable journey from jewels of the Baroque all the way to Metallica and beyond.
What is better than a cello? Four wonderful cellists playing together!
We are thrilled to bring you Australia’s favourite instrument, as voted in 2023, to experience the cello’s lyrical and rich tonal range that so closely reflects the human voice.
” Without music [and the cello], life would be a mistake"
Friedrich Nietzsche, Twilight of the Idols
Sts Peter and Paul's Old Cathedral
2023 SUBSCRIPTION | NOWRA
Wednesday 1 February 2023
This is where you can purchase a 2023 Subscription to All 3 Concerts in NOWRA.
Concert 1: (NOWRA 12th March 2023 Sunday 2pm - 4pm) ‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community. ‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community in NSW Multicultural Month. Featuring Wollongong Turkish-Australian singer Ayşe Göknur Shanal performing works from her family’s heritage.
Concert 2: (NOWRA 27th August 2023 Sunday 2pm - 4pm) Led by Baroque specialist Bridget Crouch (violin/viola) “BAROQUE HORIZONS” showcases engaging, theatrical works with broad audience appeal, arranged to reflect music of the Baroque era.
Concert 3: (NOWRA 19th November 2023 Sunday 2pm - 4pm) With “BODY AND SOUL”, Steel City Strings expands its contemporary programming to reach new audiences marrying music, vision and spoken word of Australian artists.
Nowra School of Arts
2023 SUBSCRIPTION | SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS (Robertson/Burrawang)
Wednesday 1 February 2023
This is where you can purchase a 2023 Subscription to All 3 Concerts in the SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS (Robertson/Burrawang).
Concert 1: (ROBERTSON 5th March 2023 Sunday 2pm-4pm) ‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community. ‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community in NSW Multicultural Month. Featuring Wollongong Turkish-Australian singer Ayşe Göknur Shanal performing works from her family’s heritage.
Concert 2: (BURRAWANG 20th August 2023 Sunday 2pm-4pm) Led by Baroque specialist Bridget Crouch (violin/viola) “BAROQUE HORIZONS” showcases engaging, theatrical works with broad audience appeal, arranged to reflect music of the Baroque era.
Concert 3: (BURRAWANG 12th November 2023 Sunday 2pm-4pm) With “BODY AND SOUL”, Steel City Strings expands its contemporary programming to reach new audiences marrying music, vision and spoken word of Australian artists.
Robertson School of Arts and/or Burrawang School of Arts
Body & Soul | NOWRA
Sunday 19 November 2023
With “BODY AND SOUL”, Steel City Strings expands its contemporary programming to reach new audiences marrying music, vision and spoken word of Australian artists. Presented in collaboration with Shoalhaven Regional Gallery’s “Death/Love/Art” exhibition, this performance explores human capacity for compassion through a new composition by Wollongong-born saxophonist Nicholas Russoniello and works by Ross Edwards, alongside Australian visual artworks curated by Max Dingle OAM.
Nowra School of Arts
Body & Soul | BURRAWANG
Sunday 12 November 2023
With “BODY AND SOUL”, Steel City Strings expands its contemporary programming to reach new audiences marrying music, vision and spoken word of Australian artists. Presented in collaboration with Shoalhaven Regional Gallery’s “Death/Love/Art” exhibition, this performance explores human capacity for compassion through a new composition by Wollongong-born saxophonist Nicholas Russoniello and works by Ross Edwards, alongside Australian visual artworks curated by Max Dingle OAM.
Burrawang School of Arts
Cellissimo! Bowral Memorial Hall
Sunday 15 October 2023
IntroducingCellissimo! CELLO QUARTET
The cellists of Steel City Strings will tantalise your musical tastebuds with a rich platter of musical morsels. You will be transported on a delectable journey from jewels of the Baroque all the way to Metallica and beyond.
What is better than a cello? Four wonderful cellists playing together!
We are thrilled to bring you Australia’s favourite instrument, as voted this year, to experience the cello’s lyrical and rich tonal range that so closely reflects the human voice.
” Without music [and the cello], life would be a mistake"
Friedrich Nietzsche, Twilight of the Idols
Bowral Memorial Hall
Cellissimo! Berry School of Arts
Saturday 14 October 2023
IntroducingCellissimo! CELLO QUARTET
The cellists of Steel City Strings will tantalise your musical tastebuds with a rich platter of musical morsels. You will be transported on a delectable journey from jewels of the Baroque all the way to Metallica and beyond.
What is better than a cello? Four wonderful cellists playing together!
We are thrilled to bring you Australia’s favourite instrument, as voted this year, to experience the cello’s lyrical and rich tonal range that so closely reflects the human voice.
” Without music [and the cello], life would be a mistake"
Friedrich Nietzsche, Twilight of the Idols
Berry School of Arts
Cellissimo! Wollongong Art Gallery
Saturday 23 September 2023
Introducing Cellissimo! CELLO QUARTET
The cellists of Steel City Strings will tantalise your musical tastebuds with a rich platter of musical morsels. You will be transported on a delectable journey from jewels of the Baroque all the way to Metallica and beyond.
What is better than a cello? Four wonderful cellists playing together!
We are thrilled to bring you Australia’s favourite instrument, as voted this year, to experience the cello’s lyrical and rich tonal range that so closely reflects the human voice.
” Without music [and the cello], life would be a mistake"
Friedrich Nietzsche, Twilight of the Idols
Wollongong Art Gallery
Baroque Horizons | NOWRA
Sunday 27 August 2023
Led by Baroque specialist Bridget Crouch (violin/viola) “BAROQUE HORIZONS” showcases engaging, theatrical works with broad audience
appeal, arranged to reflect music of the Baroque era. The lead-up includes professional development master classes for Steel City Strings players in a rare local opportunity to extend their Baroque repertoire and skills. The program features our own Adrian Davis playing the Telemann viola concerto in G major.
Nowra School of Arts
Baroque Horizons | WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY
Saturday 26 August 2023
Led by Baroque specialist Bridget Crouch (violin/viola) “BAROQUE HORIZONS” showcases engaging, theatrical works with broad audience
appeal, arranged to reflect music of the Baroque era. The lead-up includes professional development master classes for Steel City Strings players in a rare local opportunity to extend their Baroque repertoire and skills. The program features our own Adrian Davis playing the Telemann viola concerto in G major.
WOLLONGONG ART GALLERY
Baroque Horizons | BURRAWANG
Sunday 20 August 2023
Led by Baroque specialist Bridget Crouch (violin/viola) “BAROQUE HORIZONS” showcases engaging, theatrical works with broad audience
appeal, arranged to reflect music of the Baroque era. The lead-up includes professional development master classes for Steel City Strings players in a rare local opportunity to extend their Baroque repertoire and skills. The program features our own Adrian Davis playing the Telemann viola concerto in G major.
Burrawang School of Arts
COLLECTIONS: Steel City Strings X Australian String Quartet
Tuesday 25 July 2023
Steel City Strings and the Australian String Quartet bring you a collection of music in an evening spanning nineteenth-century bohemia to contemporary Australia.
The Steel City Strings Quartet will perform a smelter-hot selection of works including the foot-stomping, blues-infused Voodoo Dolls by Jessie Montgomery, Stephan Koncz’s riff on Erik Satie’s famous Gymnopedie with A New Satiesfaction, and Elena Kats-Chernin’s moving musical memoir of lost love, Cinque Forme d'Amore.
The final work in the night’s collection is Dvořák’s melodically rich and festive String Quartet No.14, performed by the Australian String Quartet. Dvořák’s final instrumental chamber work bubbles with inventive interplay, infused with influences from the composer’s experiences abroad and connection to his Bohemian homeland’s folk traditions.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Steel City Strings X ASQ: Collections
Sunday 4 June 2023
Steel City Strings and the Australian String Quartet bring you a collection of music in an evening spanning nineteenth-century bohemia to contemporary Australia.
The Steel City Strings Quartet will perform a smelter-hot selection of works including the foot-stomping, blues-infused Voodoo Dolls by Jessie Montgomery, Stephan Koncz’s riff on Erik Satie’s famous Gymnopedie with A New Satiesfaction, and Elena Kats-Chernin’s moving musical memoir of lost love, Cinque Forme d'Amore.
The final work in the night’s collection is Dvořák’s melodically rich and festive String Quartet No.14, performed by the Australian String Quartet. Dvořák’s final instrumental chamber work bubbles with inventive interplay, infused with influences from the composer’s experiences abroad and connection to his Bohemian homeland’s folk traditions.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Worlds Connect | NOWRA
Sunday 12 March 2023
‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community in NSW Multicultural Month. Featuring Wollongong Turkish-Australian singer Ayşe Göknur Shanal performing works from her family’s heritage.
Steel City Strings plays works by Julian Yu, Stefanos Maragkakis and First Nations composer Christopher Sainsbury. Each composer represents an important culture in our community.
Nowra School of Arts
Worlds Connect | SHELLHARBOUR
Saturday 11 March 2023
‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community in NSW Multicultural Month. Featuring Wollongong Turkish-Australian singer Ayşe Göknur Shanal performing works from her family’s heritage.
Steel City Strings plays works by Julian Yu, Stefanos Maragkakis and First Nations composer Christopher Sainsbury. Each composer represents an important culture in our community.
Steel City Strings will perform, for the first time, in Shellharbour, our region’s highest growth area.
Shellharbour Civic Centre
Worlds Connect | ROBERTSON
Sunday 5 March 2023
‘WORLDS CONNECT” extends our reach into our diverse community in NSW Multicultural Month. Featuring Wollongong Turkish-Australian singer Ayşe Göknur Shanal performing works from her family’s heritage.
Steel City Strings plays works by Julian Yu, Stefanos Maragkakis and First Nations composer Christopher Sainsbury. Each composer represents an important culture in our community.
Robertson School of Arts
Women in Steel featuring Claire Edwardes | BERRY
Sunday 20 November 2022
Inspired by the acclaimed Illawarra documentary film, ‘Women of Steel’, Steel City Strings and percussionist Claire Edwardes premiere a brand-new concerto for percussion by Australian composer, Natalie Williams. The work captures the Illawarra Steelworks and pays homage to the 18-year battle of the Jobs for Women campaign with BHP between 1980-1994. In addition, Steel City Strings revisits Shostakovich's Chamber Symphony and works by Eastern European composers.
Supported by Create NSW.
Berry School of Arts
TEMPLATE - Steel City Strings Concerts
Wednesday 16 November 2022
About this concert...
Berry School of Arts
Worlds Connect
Wednesday 16 November 2022
Sako Dermenjian.
Robertson School of Arts
Seasons featuring Emily Sun | BURRAWANG
Sunday 14 August 2022
Contrasting old and new, 'Seasons' brings a much-anticipated work to the region – Max Richter’s 2012 reinterpretation of Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. For this concert, Steel City Strings will be joined by Guest Soloist, Emily Sun (ABC Young Performer Award-Winner, 2018). The program also includes Vivaldi’s Concerto Grosso in G minor, the Concerto for two violins in C major and Scarlatti's Sinfonia from Tolomeo e Alessandro, ovvero la corona disprezzata.
Supported by Create NSW.
Burrawang School of Arts
Seasons featuring Emily Sun | KIAMA
Sunday 7 August 2022
Contrasting old and new, 'Seasons' brings a much-anticipated work to the region – Max Richter’s 2012 reinterpretation of Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. For this concert, Steel City Strings will be joined by Guest Soloist, Emily Sun (ABC Young Performer Award-Winner, 2018). The program also includes Vivaldi’s Concerto Grosso in G minor, the Concerto for two violins in C major and Scarlatti's Sinfonia from Tolomeo e Alessandro, ovvero la corona disprezzata.
Supported by Create NSW.
The Pavilion Kiama
Earth Connections featuring William Barton | BERRY
Sunday 22 May 2022
In a program that will evoke the natural world, composer and didgeridoo artist William Barton joins Steel City Strings for performances of his most notable works including Didge Fusion, Petrichor and Birdsong at Dusk. The program also features music by First Nations and South Coast composer, Brenda Gifford, as well as Australian composers Paul Stanhope and Peter Sculthorpe. Max Richter's 'Nature of Daylight' will also feature.
Supported by Create NSW.
Berry School of Arts
Earth Connections featuring William Barton | BURRAWANG
Sunday 15 May 2022
In a program that will evoke the natural world, composer and didgeridoo artist William Barton joins Steel City Strings for performances of his most notable works including Didge Fusion, Petrichor and Birdsong at Dusk. The program also features music by First Nations and South Coast composer, Brenda Gifford, as well as Australian composers Paul Stanhope and Peter Sculthorpe. Max Richter's 'Nature of Daylight' will also feature.
Supported by Create NSW.
Burrawang School of Arts
Seasons - NOWRA SCHOOL OF ARTS
Sunday 21 November 2021
With Seasons, Steel City Strings returns to its popular identity as a classical local Chamber orchestra that earned us our 2019 APRA National Art Music Award for “Excellence in a Regional Area and Commitment to Performing Australian Music”. Vivaldi’s Four Seasons will be bookended by works by JS Bach and an Australian composition.
NOWRA School of Arts
Seasons - Bowral Memorial Hall
Sunday 14 November 2021
With Seasons, Steel City Strings returns to its popular identity as a classical local Chamber orchestra that earned us our 2019 APRA National Art Music Award for “Excellence in a Regional Area and Commitment to Performing Australian Music”. Vivaldi’s Four Seasons will be bookended by works by JS Bach and an Australian composition.
Bowral Memorial Hall
Celebration of Youth | NOWRA
Sunday 27 June 2021
Steel City Strings’ biennial Celebration of Youth concert returns in 2021, showcasing some of the region’s most talented young musicians.
Young composers are a significant element of the program: From the compositions of nineteen-year-old Mozart to the premiere performance of the string orchestral work that wins the SCS Youth Composition Competition.
'Celebration of Youth' is proudly supported by Create NSW.
Nowra School of Arts
Celebration of Youth | BURRADOO
Sunday 20 June 2021
Steel City Strings’ biennial Celebration of Youth concert returns in 2021, showcasing some of the region’s most talented young musicians.
Young composers are a significant element of the program: From the compositions of nineteen-year-old Mozart to the premiere performance of the string orchestral work that wins the SCS Youth Composition Competition.
'Celebration of Youth' is proudly supported by Create NSW.
Chevalier College Performing Arts Centre
The Composer is in the Room | NOWRA
Sunday 7 March 2021
Steel City Strings is back in 2021 with an exciting concert event to present a new composition, ‘Cinque Forme d’Amore’ (‘Five Kinds of Love’) by Elena Kats-Chernin, voted the most popular Australian composer in 2019’s ABC Classic’s Favourite Composer countdown. This piece was commissioned by local philanthropist Sue Kirby in memory of her late husband, Judge Jack Goldring.
Also featuring music by Matthew Hindson, Ann Carr-Boyd and more!
Nowra School of Arts
The Composer is in the Room | BURRADOO
Sunday 28 February 2021
Steel City Strings is back in 2021 with an exciting concert event to present a new composition, ‘Cinque Forme d’Amore’ (‘Five Kinds of Love’) by Elena Kats-Chernin, voted the most popular Australian composer in 2019’s ABC Classic’s Favourite Composer countdown. This piece was commissioned by local philanthropist Sue Kirby in memory of her late husband, Judge Jack Goldring.
Also featuring music by Matthew Hindson, Ann Carr-Boyd and more!
Chevalier College Performing Arts Centre
Steel City Strings - THE RETURN | Berry School of Arts
Saturday 30 January 2021
After months of being locked out of concert halls, Wollongong's Award-Winning Chamber Orchestra, STEEL CITY STRINGS is thrilled to make a welcome and COVID safe return to Berry School of Arts.
A program that is short and sweet offers two old favourites, Antonio Vivaldi's Concerto for Two Cellos and Peter Warlock's popular Capriol Suite. And a surprise: Ernest Bloch’s Concerto Grosso No.1 for strings and piano obbligato. A joyous celebration of string writing at its very best.
Berry School of Arts (COVID)
Steel City Strings 2020 Digital Season | Oct // Nov // Dec
Wednesday 21 October 2020
From October to December 2020, Steel City Strings will perform its inaugural Digital Season.
3 incredible 40-minute concerts. 3 incredible months.
It will see a combination of complete orchestra works such as Warlock's 'Capriol Suite', trios, quartets and various solo performances from our principal and associate artists.
Oct: Vivaldi, Beethoven, Mendelssohn
Nov: Corelli, Ravel, Holst
Dec: Mozart, Shostakovich, Warlock
Trailer: https://youtu.be/HPVl-9gsCqs
Steel City Strings - THE RETURN | Bowral Memorial Hall
Sunday 6 December 2020
After months of being locked out of concert halls, Wollongong's Award-Winning Chamber Orchestra, STEEL CITY STRINGS is thrilled to make a welcome and COVID safe return to Bowral Memorial Hall.
A program that is short and sweet offers two old favourites, Antonio Vivaldi's Concerto for Two Cellos and Peter Warlock's popular Capriol Suite. And a surprise: Ernest Bloch’s Concerto Grosso No.1 for strings and piano obbligato. A joyous celebration of string writing at its very best.
Bowral Memorial Hall (COVID)
Steel City Strings - THE RETURN | Berry School of Arts
Sunday 29 November 2020
After months of being locked out of concert halls, Wollongong's Award-Winning Chamber Orchestra, STEEL CITY STRINGS is thrilled to make a welcome and COVID safe return to Berry School of Arts.
A program that is short and sweet offers two old favourites, Antonio Vivaldi's Concerto for Two Cellos and Peter Warlock's popular Capriol Suite. And a surprise: Ernest Bloch’s Concerto Grosso No.1 for strings and piano obbligato. A joyous celebration of string writing at its very best.
Berry School of Arts (COVID)
THE COMPOSER IS IN THE ROOM - BURRADOO (CANCELLED)
Sunday 8 November 2020
The Composer is in the Room features the world premiere of a new work by Elena Kats-Chernin who was voted number one favourite Australian composer in the recent ABC Favourite Composers countdown. It is a great honour for our region to premiere this work, which was commissioned by a local philanthropist specifically to be presented in our region by Steel City Strings. Other works, by local composers, have also been chosen for their audience appeal.
Chevalier College Performing Arts Centre
The Composer is in the Room - Nowra (CANCELLED)
Sunday 1 November 2020
The Composer is in the Room features the world premiere of a new work by Elena Kats-Chernin who was voted number one favourite Australian composer in the recent ABC Favourite Composers countdown. It is a great honour for our region to premiere this work, which was commissioned by a local philanthropist specifically to be presented in our region by Steel City Strings. Other works, by local composers, have also been chosen for their audience appeal.
Nowra School of Arts
The Composer is in the Room - Nowra (CANCELLED)
Monday 26 October 2020
The Composer is in the Room features the world premiere of a new work by Elena Kats-Chernin who was voted number one favourite Australian composer in the recent ABC Favourite Composers countdown. It is a great honour for our region to premiere this work, which was commissioned by a local philanthropist specifically to be presented in our region by Steel City Strings. Other works, by local composers, have also been chosen for their audience appeal.
Nowra School of Arts
Earth Connections - Berry
Sunday 28 June 2020
Earth Connections features William Barton, widely recognised as Australia’s finest didgeridoo player. He says "I want to take the oldest culture in the world and blend it with Europe's rich musical legacy.” Steel City Strings will reach out to William, his friends, and local Indigenous artists in a program of shared creations.
Berry School of Arts
Earth Connections - Bowral
Sunday 21 June 2020
Earth Connections features William Barton, widely recognised as Australia’s finest didgeridoo player. He says "I want to take the oldest culture in the world and blend it with Europe's rich musical legacy.” Steel City Strings will reach out to William, his friends, and local Indigenous artists in a program of shared creations.
Bowral Memorial Hall
The Composer is in the Room - Bowral (CANCELLED)
Sunday 5 April 2020
The Composer is in the Room features the world premiere of a new work by Elena Kats-Chernin who was voted number one favourite Australian composer in the recent ABC Favourite Composers countdown. It is a great honour for our region to premiere this work, which was commissioned by a local philanthropist specifically to be presented in our region by Steel City Strings. Other works, by local composers, have also been chosen for their audience appeal.
Bowral Memorial Hall
2020 - Three series subscription
Subscription to 2020 series 1,2 & 3
Be the first to choose your preferred venue and seat for all three series in our very exciting 2020 season line up.
Subscription
2020 - Two series subscription
Subscription to 2020 series 1,2 & 3
Not sure you can get to all three series throughout the year? A two series subscription allows you to book your seat(s) at any two of the three concert series in 2020.
Subscription
Symphonic Sounds - Nowra
Sunday 22 September 2019
We are delighted to welcome back violinist Anna da Silva Chen playing Beethoven’s violin concerto. With our string orchestra augmented with brass, woodwind and percussion, we will be performing Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony and Paul Stanhope’s ‘Morning Star’ for string orchestra.
Nowra School of Arts
Symphonic Sounds - Wollongong
Saturday 21 September 2019
We are delighted to welcome back violinist Anna da Silva Chen playing Beethoven’s violin concerto. With our string orchestra augmented with brass, woodwind and percussion, we will be performing Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony and Paul Stanhope’s ‘Morning Star’ for string orchestra.
St Francis Xavier Cathedral
Symphonic Sounds - Burradoo
Sunday 15 September 2019
We are delighted to welcome back violinist Anna da Silva Chen playing Beethoven’s violin concerto. With our string orchestra augmented with brass, woodwind and percussion, we will be performing Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony and Paul Stanhope’s ‘Morning Star’ for string orchestra.
Chevalier College Performing Arts Centre
STEEL CITY STRINGS MEETS SOUTH COAST BIG BAND- 30 JUNE
Sunday 30 June 2019
Classically-trained multi-instrumentalist Des Cannings formed his own jazz band at age 14 and hasn't looked back. His Big Band - comprising vocals, brass, keyboard and rhythm - will combine with Steel City Strings to perform large orchestral works (Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue"), film music, jazz and more
Nowra School of Arts
2019 - Two series subscription
Subscription to 2019 series 1,2 & 3
Not sure you can get to all three series throughout the year? A two series subscription allows you to book your seat(s) at any two of the three concert series in 2019.
Subscription
STEEL CITY STRINGS MEETS SOUTH COAST BIG BAND- 23 JUNE
Sunday 23 June 2019
Classically-trained multi-instrumentalist Des Cannings formed his own jazz band at age 14 and hasn't looked back. His Big Band - comprising vocals, brass, keyboard and rhythm - will combine with Steel City Strings to perform large orchestral works (Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue"), film music, jazz and more.
Chevalier College Performing Arts Centre
Celebration of Youth - Chevalier
Sunday 31 March 2019
Following our highly successful Celebration of Youth concert in 2017, we once again showcase the awesome talent of young musicians and composers of the Illawarra, South Coast and Southern Highlands. We will be joined by BlueScope Youth Orchestra in a selection of orchestral favourites, and young composer Adrian Whitehall will write a work commissioned for the occasion. Featured soloist is the winner of the Wollongong Conservatorium Concerto Competition 2018, bassoonist Peter Lavilles.
Chevalier College Performing Arts Centre
Celebration of Youth - Wollongong
Saturday 30 March 2019
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* PLEASE NOTE THIS BOOKING PAGE IS FOR STEEL CITY STRINGS SUBSCRIBERS ONLY *
FOR ALL SINGLE PERFORMANCE TICKET SALES
please purchase direct from the Wollongong Town Hall box office:
https://merrigong.com.au/shows/celebration-of-youth/
Wollongong Town Hall
2019 - Three series subscription
Subscription to 2019 series 1,2 & 3
Be the first to choose your preferred venue and seat for all three series in our very exciting 2019 season line up.
Subscription
Celebration of Youth - Kiama
Sunday 24 March 2019
Following our highly successful Celebration of Youth concert in 2017, we once again showcase the awesome talent of young musicians and composers of the Illawarra, South Coast and Southern Highlands. We will be joined by BlueScope Youth Orchestra in a selection of orchestral favourites, and young composer Adrian Whitehall will write a work commissioned for the occasion. Featured soloist is the winner of the Wollongong Conservatorium Concerto Competition 2018, bassoonist Peter Lavilles.
The Pavilion Kiama
Serenades and Dances
Between Sunday 16 September 2018 and Sunday 23 September 2018
Virtuoso guitarist Aleksandr Tsiboulski joins Steel City Strings to play Ross Edwards’ Arafura Dances: Concerto for Guitar and Strings and Boccherini’s Fandango. Also on the program, Elgar’s Serenade for Strings, Barber’s Adagio and more.
Serenades and Dances
Strings with Voices
Between Saturday 23 June 2018 and Sunday 1 July 2018
Steel City Strings is joined by boutique choir con voci and soloists Susie Bishop (soprano), Daniel Tambasco (tenor) and Jared Lillehagen (bass) in works by Grieg, Fauré and Schubert.
Wollongong/Burrawang/Kiama
Great Chamber Works
Between Sunday 18 March 2018 and Sunday 25 March 2018
Steel City Strings return with their first program for 2018.
The program comprises string orchestra performances of some of the most loved string quartets, including Dvorak String Quartet No 12, Op 96 in F major “the American”, and Mendelssohn String Quartet No 2, Op. 13 in A minor.
As usual, there will be a “crowd pleaser” or two, and a contemporary work by a local composer.
Kiama | Wollongong | Berry
Steel City Strings Subscription 2018
1 Ticket Program 1,2 & 3
Steel City Strings subscription series in Wollongong : 7.30 pm on Saturday 24 March, 23 June, 22 September
Steel City Strings subscription series in Kiama: 2pm on Sunday 18 March, 1 July, 16 September
Steel City Strings subscription series other venues: 2pm on Sunday 25 March (Berry), 24 June (Southern Highlands), 23 September (Nowra)
Wollongong Art Gallery
The Passion of Music
Sunday 11 February 2018
A 76 minute feature documentary film
Acclaimed filmmaker Tony Williams draws us into the heart of a chamber orchestra – Wollongong-based Steel City Strings – and reveals the interaction and the stories of the people behind the music.
“Tony Williams’ film demonstrates that music is not some optional extra, it is our greatest form of expression and our lifeblood”.
Andrew Ford – composer and radio presenter on ABC The Music Show
Portion of sales will be fundraising for Steel City Strings
Greater Union Cinema
Music Through The Ages at Wollongong Art Gallery
Saturday 28 October 2017
Steel City Strings presents “Music Through The Ages”, featuring great works from from the 18th to the 21st centuries. 7.30pm Saturday 28 October 2017 at Wollongong Art Gallery.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Music Through The Ages at Kiama Pavilion
Sunday 22 October 2017
Steel City Strings presents “Music Through The Ages”, featuring great works from the 18th to the 21st centuries. 2pm Sunday 22 October 2017 at Kiama Pavilion.
Kiama Pavilion
Music From Around The World at Wollongong Art Gallery
Saturday 3 June 2017
Steel City Strings presents “Music from around the World”, a cultural feast of music from diverse cultures. 7.30pm Sunday 3rd June 2017 at Wollongong Art Gallery.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Music From Around The World at Berry School of Arts
Sunday 28 May 2017
Steel City Strings presents “Music from around the World”, a cultural feast of music from diverse cultures. 2 pm Sunday 28 May 2017 at Berry School of Arts.
Berry School of Arts
Steel City Strings Wollongong Subscription 2017
Steel City Strings Subscription 2017
Book now and save with a subscription for Steel City Strings Wollongong concerts in 2017; 7.30 pm on Saturday 18 March (“Celebration of Youth”), 3 June (“Music from around the World”), and 28 October (“Music through the Ages”).
Wollongong Town Hall/Art Gallery
Resonance - Wollongong Art Gallery
Saturday 10 September 2016
Steel City Strings presents Britten’s Simple Symphony and works by the great Italian, German/Austrian, Russian and Estonian composers of the Romantic era. Conductor: Keiren Brandt-Sawdy, Concertmaster: Kyle Little
Wollongong Art Gallery
Resonance - Berry School of Arts
Saturday 3 September 2016
Steel City Strings presents Britten’s Simple Symphony and works by the great Italian, German/Austrian, Russian and Estonian composers of the Romantic era. Conductor: Keiren Brandt-Sawdy, Concertmaster: Kyle Little
Berry School of Arts
Steel City Strings presents Classics in the South
Saturday 11 June 2016
Soloists Kyle Little and Joanna Landstra join Steel City Strings to play Mozart’s Symphonia Concertante. Also on the program works by Haydn, Handel and Sibelius.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Steel City Strings Subscription 2016
march 12, june 11, september 10
Steel City Strings subscription series at Wollongong Art Gallery: 7pm on Saturday 12 March, Saturday
Wollongong Art Gallery
Steel City Strings: Inspirations
Saturday 12 March 2016
Wollongong Art Gallery, 7pm Saturday 12 March 2016. Featuring classics old and new, from Vivaldi to Metallica - and much more.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Steel City Strings at Kiama Pavilion
Sunday 6 March 2016
Kiama Pavilion, 2pm Sunday 6 March 2016. Featuring classics old and new, from Vivaldi to Copland to our own Metallicamix arrangement - and much more.
Kiama Pavilion
Steel City Strings at Kiama Pavilion
Sunday 29 November 2015
Kiama Pavilion, Sunday November 29 at 2pm.
Featuring Soprano Louise Lavilles singing Baroque and Christmas classics.
Also Corelli Christmas Concerto, Mendelssohn String Symphony and much more.
Kiama Pavilion
Steel City Strings Xmas Concert
Saturday 21 November 2015
Wollongong Art Gallery, Saturday November 21 at 7pm
Featuring Janusz Wawrowski playing Bach Violin
Wollongong Art Gallery
Berry School of Arts
Sunday 16 August 2015
Steel City Strings Concert – Berry School of Arts – August 16, 2015 02:00 PM
Berry School of Arts
Wollongong Art Gallery
Saturday 15 August 2015
Steel City Strings Concert - Wollongong Art Gallery - August 15, 2015 07:00 PM
Wollongong Art Gallery
Steel City Strings Concert - Wollongong
Saturday 9 May 2015
Steel City Strings is kicking off its first concert series of the season with an amazing performance. Featuring cellists Ilir Merxhushi & Karella Mitchell performing the Vivaldi Two Cello Concerto. Also featuring Award Wining Australian Folk Singer Rebecca Moore. This concert will include famous chamber works by Borodin, Piazzolla, Respighi and Barkl.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Steel City Strings Concert - Bowral
Sunday 3 May 2015
Steel City Strings is kicking off its first concert series of the season with an amazing performance. Featuring cellists Ilir Merxhushi & Karella Mitchell performing the Vivaldi Two Cello Concerto. Also featuring Award Wining Australian Folk Singer Rebecca Moore. This concert will include famous chamber works by Borodin, Piazzolla, Respighi and Barkl.
St. Thomas Aquinas Church
Steel City Strings, Op.2
Saturday 25 October 2014
Steel city strings is proud to present "Steel City Strings, Op.2". This exciting chamber music event will feature works by Bach, Grieg, Sculthope, Grainger and many more! Come and listen to the beautiful sounds played by musicians from the Illawarra and South Coast region.
Wollongong Art Gallery
