Leading the charge is one of the world’s most revered clarinettists, , whose virtuosity, charisma and sheer musicality have earned him a place among the true greats of classical music. From soloing with the world’s leading orchestras to redefining the clarinet repertoire, Collins is a Festival coup.

a globally celebrated British soprano with a radiant tone and exceptional range, joins Michael as a bucket-list artist must-see. She is also making her AFCM debut.

AFCM Artistic Director, the internationally acclaimed UK violinist has curated a program that brings together celebrated virtuosos with first-time Festival artists, in what promises to be an extraordinary nine days of music-making, connection, and celebration.

A trio of globally famed-Australian artists add serious star power to the program, including:

This year’s 13 is a leaderboard of classical and chamber music must-haves, with organisers excited to welcome them all for the first time, with two marking their Australian debut as well:

“This is the heart of the AFCM, seeing musical titans performing alongside first-time Festival artists, sharing the stage, the inspiration, and the magic of chamber music,” said Jack Liebeck. “To witness a horn player from the Berlin Philharmonic, a soprano with an OBE, and Australia’s best, and next generation of classical greats all performing on one stage – in tropical North Queensland – is nothing short of extraordinary.”

What makes 2025 even more poignant is that it will be the final year the Festival is staged in Townsville, before relocating to Cairns in 2026. As such, this year’s program promises more than just virtuosity – it will be a heartfelt farewell celebration for the ages, honouring the legacy, audiences and music magic that has made the past 35 years in Townsville so extraordinary. Expect world premieres, standing ovations, and a Festival overflowing with emotion, memory and music.

This year, from 25 July to 2 August, a total of 36 extraordinary musicians including 11 international artists, two making their Australian debut, 13 artists making their AFCM debuts and three ensembles, will travel to Townsville-Gurambilbarra for what has become one of the most famous chamber music events in the world. 

The AFCM has called Townsville-Gurambilbarra its home for 34 years. Each year the event, now under the Artistic Directorship of famed international violinist , attracts musicians from around the world to perform across 9 days in July and August. Independent research shows the 2024 event generated a total spending in Queensland by all attendees of $19.98million, up 114% from $9.32million in 2023.The total attendance of 22,106 across all events, was an increase of 31% on 2023, with interstate and overseas visitors increasing by 16%.

Australian Festival of Chamber Music

25 July – 2 August

Tickets on sale NOW

www.afcm.com.au | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | #afcm

AFCM principal partners include Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and Arts Queensland, and Townsville City Council. AFCM is supported by the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland.

Key Facts:

Australian Festival of Chamber Music

25 July – 2 August

Tickets on sale NOW

www.afcm.com.au | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | #afcm

Contact details:

Kath Rose | 0416 291 493 | [email protected]

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