Lyrical Masterpieces: An Afternoon of Chamber Music at the Conservatorium

THE Northern Rivers Conservatorium, in partnership with Musica Viva Australia, is pleased to present Lyrical Masterpieces on Sunday 15 February 2026, an intimate afternoon of chamber music featuring violinist Doretta Balkizas and pianist Brieley Cutting.

Originally scheduled for 2025 and postponed, this much-anticipated concert now takes its place in the Conservatorium’s ongoing Visiting Artist program, continuing a valued partnership with Musica Viva that brings exceptional musicians to the Northern Rivers. Set in the Conservatorium’s heritage concert room in the heart of the Lismore CBD, the performance promises glowing sound, expressive depth and radiant melody.

The program features works by Debussy, Brahms, Messiaen, Lili Boulanger and Australian composer Margaret Sutherland, tracing a musical journey from French impressionism to German romanticism. These works invite deep listening, offering audiences music that nourishes both the heart and the imagination.

The Conservatorium’s collaboration with Musica Viva Australia plays an important role in making performances of this calibre accessible to regional audiences, allowing internationally recognised artists to share their work with local communities while enriching the cultural life of the Northern Rivers.

As Executive Director Anita Bellman explains, “Our Visiting Artist program is about connection. It connects our students with professional musicians, our audiences with extraordinary performances, and our region with the national and international music community.”

Education remains central to the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, with more than 1,000 students each week participating in music programs across all ages and abilities. Hosting visiting artists extends this learning beyond the classroom, giving students insight into professional musical pathways.

For violinist Doretta Balkizas, recently returned from a decade performing with leading European orchestras, and pianist Brieley Cutting, a Northern Rivers local with a national reputation, Lyrical Masterpieces offers a chance to share their passion for chamber music with local audiences.

Sunday 15 February 2026, 5pm

NRC Concert Room, 152 Keen Street, Lismore

$40 / $28 concession / $18 under 18

Tickets: https://nrcac.edu.au/events

//SPONSORED CONTENT