The Australian String Academy is excited to present the 2009 Crossroads Festival, a weekend celebration of chamber music in the peaceful surroundings of the Central Coast, and for the first time, Hunter Valley, from 4-7 September 2009.

ASA will be presenting some of Australia’s finest chamber musicians and string players, and this year we we are excited to expand the artist lineup to include international performers. Artists include Charmian Gadd and friends, and the Orava Quartet are back by popular demand from last year's overwhleming audience response. Chris Pidcock, an exceptional cellist who won the Gisborne International Music Competition in 2007, will be featured as well as pianist Jeanell Carrigan.

The spirit of “exchange” and cultural benefit for the Central Coast Community continues in 2009, and regional performers include the Concertante Ensemble led by Chris Bearman. The exciting collaboration between international and regional performers will culminate in a special performance detailed in the festival brochure. Also, we are excited to have the Central Coast Childrens Choir featured in the Hunter Valley, and to support the inspirational Carrie's Place Choir.

Lastly, the festival will heavily feature the Wilhelm Quartet from London, an exciting quartet formed from the ranks of the Royal Academy of Music, establsihing itself in London with performances at Wigmore Hall and many competition successes. Festival Artistic Director Glen Donnelly is violist in the quartet and is excited to bring the group to Australia for the first time.

Also for the first time, the festival has expanded to two Hunter Valley concerts as well as the main festival on the Central Coast. Situated just an hour’s drive north of Sydney, the Central Coast offers great recreational activities, excellent dining and beautiful sights to see in between the concerts. Optionally, enjoy a weekend in the Hunter Valley and compliment quality music with high tea at Crowne Plaza on the Sunday afternoon.