ABOUT THE CONCERT

Perfect Imperfections is a bold reimagining of the flute as an instrument of power, soul, and raw humanity. This journey takes us into the emotional landscapes of each listener, inviting us to find beauty within imperfection, connection through vulnerability, and uplift through music.

Internationally-renowned flautist Joshua Batty pushes boundaries with all new works, including three world premieres, and deeply personal collaborations: a powerful improvised dialogue with William Barton, one of Australia’s leading First Nations artists; Harry Sdraulig’s intimate concerto fragment born of fifteen years of friendship; Aristea Mellos’ Song Without Words, a tribute to family legacy; and Lee Bradshaw’s reimagining of Prokofiev’s iconic Flute Sonata. Leading concert pianist and composer Sir Stephen Hough contributes Cherish This Night, a passionate meditation on love and loss.

Joined by some of Australia’s top musicians – the acclaimed Chroma String Quartet, concert pianist Konstantin Shamray, and guest artist William Barton – this landmark debut of an all-Australian vision celebrates art’s power to challenge, transform, uplift, and profoundly connect.

PROGRAM

Stephen Hough
Cherish This Night: Nocturne for Flute and Piano

Aristea Mellos
Song Without Words for Flute and Piano (World Premiere)

Sergei Prokofiev
Sonata for Flute and Piano (arr. Lee Bradshaw for flute and strings) 

William Barton
Solo Didgeridoo

Harry Sdraulig
Cantilena for Flute, Strings and Piano (World Premiere) 

Harry Sdraulig
Piano Quartet 

William Barton
Dialogue for Alto Flute, Voice / Didgeridoo and Strings (World Premiere)