The Phillip Heath AM Music Masterclass & Scholars Concert

About this event

Phillip Heath Scholars' Concert | A Celebration of Chamber Music

At the heart of this special event is chamber music — a cornerstone of the Barker strings program and an essential training ground for young musicians.

Chamber music fosters independence, deep listening, and shared responsibility within an ensemble. Unlike larger orchestral settings, each performer plays a uniquely vital role, requiring students to communicate musically, shape interpretation collaboratively, and lead with confidence and sensitivity. Opportunities of this kind are rare within a school environment, making this concert a particularly distinctive feature of Barker’s musical life.

Immediately prior to the concert, selected students will take part in a chamber music masterclass with distinguished guest artists Simon Cobcroft and Andrew Haveron. This provides a rare opportunity to engage with internationally renowned musicians and gain insight into the artistic standards and collaborative practices expected at the highest levels of performance.

The Scholars' Concert will feature chamber ensembles and soloists drawn from across the junior and senior string program, showcasing the artistry, dedication, and leadership of our students.

The highlight of the evening will be a side-by-side performance with Andrew Haveron, Adele Ohki and Simon Cobcroft of Felix Mendelssohn’s String Octet, bringing together students and guest artists in a collaborative performance that celebrates mentorship and shared artistry.

This project reflects the strength of the Barker music community and its connection to the broader musical life of Sydney, offering students meaningful performance experiences that will inspire and support their ongoing musical journeys.

Date: Thursday 26 March
Time: Masterclass to start at 5:30pm with the Scholars' Concert to follow at 7:05pm

For a link to the Program, please click below.