The Australian String Quartet

Dale Barltrop and Francesca Hiew, violin, Chris Cartlidge, viola, Michael Dahlenburg, cello

The Australian String Quartet (ASQ) is Australia’s pre-eminent organisation dedicated to string quartet music and Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium of Music.

In their 40th year, they are energised by their purpose to create chemistry and amplify intimacy through experiences that engage people across regional and metropolitan Australia and around the world.

Emma Gilmartin, jazz vocals

Emma Gilmartin has gained a reputation as one of Australia’s most talented jazz vocalists. Her voice is undeniably beautiful with “a crystalline purity of vibrato-less tone and flawless pitch.’ The Age

Tony Gould AM, piano

One of Australia’s most respected musicians, legendary pianist, educator, composer and festival director Tony Gould joins us for the Candlelight Concert.

Blair Harris, cello

Member of Ensemble Offspring, Monash University cello lecturer and leading Australian cellist Blair Harris is a Music by the Springs favourite.

Stewart Kelly, piano

Festival Curator, one of Australia’s finest collaborative pianists and piano faculty at the VCA Secondary School.

Laurence Matheson, piano

Frequent collaborator with leading festivals and artists across Australia and New Zealand, Laurence Matheson makes a welcome return to MBTS 2026.

Sidra Nissen, mezzo-soprano

An extraordinary young talent and the first Music by the Springs emerging artist.

Timothy Young, piano

Head of Piano and Chamber Music at the Australian National Academy of Music, Timothy Young is one of Australia’s finest and favourite pianists.