Art Music in Regional Australia

Art Music (broadly referred to as ‘classical’ music) is often brought to the regions from urban areas as a form of musical missionary work, bringing ‘culture’ to the locals. Art music, however, also exists in and of itself in non-metropolitan regional centres. Separate from urban activity, it takes place over several layers within regional communities; from amateurbased ensembles to professional performers. There is strong audience support for this genre of music in the regions, but measures need to be taken to strengthen the connection, relevance, and accessibility of music for audiences who may not be exposed to, or feel confident in attending ‘classical’ music events or activities.