About the Australian Classical Orchestra

What is the Australian Classical Era Orchestra?

The Australian Classical Era Orchestra performs music of the Classical Era (ca.1740-1830) on historic instruments and their replicas, bringing the freshness and diversity of the New World to Old World music and music-making techniques.

Why Western Australia?

Perth is home to a critical mass of musicians who make up the Australian Classical Era Orchestra. Either resident in Perth or originating from there, Western Australian tertiary music institutions have provided many talented player and singers with a solid grounding in Historically Informed Performance (HIP). Some of these musicians, although now pursuing careers in Europe — performing and recording internationally with the top Historically Informed Performance ensembles in the world — crave the opportunity to perform on their home soil in conjunction with talented resident Western Australian musicians.

Who are we?

The "Aussie invasion" of Europe prompted Tim Blomfield, in 2005, to envisage the idea of forming a unique West Australian orchestra bringing one of the fastest growing trends of music in Europe to the West Australian stage. The ensemble especially provides opportunities for resident top West Australian specialists to perform the latest ideas in HIP with regularly returning West Australian expats.

When did we first perform?

The inaugural season in January 2006 (timed to celebrate Mozart's 250th birthday) ignited such overwhelmingly enthusiasm, from audiences and critics alike, that it became clear the Australian Classical Era Orchestra is here to stay.

Where do we operate?

The Australian Classical Era Orchestra has Perth as its centre of artistic output. It is a unique cultural product – one that will continue to enrich and add value to the West Australian culture and delight the public with fresh sounds into the future.