The Organs of the Ballarat Goldfields is a unique Music Festival currently in its 19th year of delighting audiences with a series of 23 recitals over 10 days.
The festival is a celebration not only of fine music and culture, but also gorgeous historic and interesting venues of the local area. This year they range from churches, to lakes, parks, wineries and arts centres. There's even a voyage on the
The Golden City Paddle Steamer on Lake Wendouree, which sold out so quickly they've added a second sailing to the program.
A diverse ensemble of the finest musicians, soloists and choirs will lift audiences spirits to the highest lofts of the cathedral's ceilings with performances from the great composers: Beethoven, Mozart, Debussy, Handel, Bach, Rachmaninov, Schubert, Vivaldi, Puccini, Piazzolla and many more.
As the name of the festival suggests, the organs are the major attraction, but of equal importance will be the accompanying instruments like the flute, harp, viola, trumpet, violin, cello, piano and guitar.
Many of the performances are followed by suppers where you get an opportunity to meet the musicians. There will be afternoon teas and even breakfast in the park. You can totally immerse yourself into this Festival and enjoy the Goldfields at the same time.
January is definitely a great time to head for gold country, for the abundance of attractions on offer.