Schubert’s Fantasy & Octet

The  Australian Chamber Orchestra  is one of the most acclaimed chamber orchestras in the world. Led by their pioneering Artistic Director Richard Tognetti, the Orchestra is defined by its exceptional virtuosity and an irrepressible sense of adventure and curiosity.

Richard Tognetti's affinity for Schubert is evident in every note he plays. Here, he directs an ACO ensemble featuring a handpicked selection of Australia's top wind players in two exquisite works that showcase Schubert as a master of chamber music.

Schubert wrote his Octet to emulate his hero Beethoven's groundbreaking septet – adding an extra violin and revelling in the textural possibilities of the winds and strings together.

The result offers the drama of a big orchestra with the agility of a small ensemble. The Octet is six movements of unbridled joy, studded with moments of darkness and poignancy that make its resolution even more satisfying.

Schubert's beloved Fantasy in C major for violin and piano was inspired by Paganini's brilliance and is arranged by Tognetti for the magic of the ACO octet. It is a shimmering and compelling counterpart that completes this heart-warming, life-affirming concert experience.