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Four Weeks to Go: World-Class Music Comes Alive on Tamborine Mountain14–16 August 2026 | Shambala Estate | Tamborine Mountain
Wednesday, 15 July 2026
As artificial intelligence increasingly reshapes how we create, consume and experience art, the 22nd SXS Chamber Music Festival offers something no technology can replicate: the shared experience of live performance.
Just four weeks remain until internationally acclaimed artists gather on Tamborine Mountain for one of Australia's most distinctive cultural weekends, where extraordinary music, breathtaking scenery and genuine community connection come together in the heart of the Scenic Rim.
Presented by Southern Cross Soloists, the three-day festival returns to the stunning Shambala Estate from 14–16 August, inviting audiences to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the power of live music.
This year's festival theme, Safe in Sound, explores family, belonging and human connection—ideas that feel increasingly important in a rapidly changing world. Through music spanning centuries, audiences will experience stories of friendship, artistic collaboration, memory, and shared humanity performed by some of Australia's finest musicians alongside internationally celebrated guest artists.
Leading the 2026 festival are internationally recognised artists including beloved Australian soprano Sara Macliver, Finnish-Australian cellist and Australian Chamber Orchestra Principal Timo-Veikko Valve, acclaimed pianist Aura Go, the celebrated Lyrebird Trio, together with Southern Cross Soloists Artistic Director and three-time Grammy Award winner Tim Munro, and internationally renowned clarinettist Ashley Smith.Festival Artistic Director Tim Munro said the festival celebrates the things that make live music irreplaceable.
"At its heart, Safe in Sound is about people coming together. Live music creates moments that simply cannot be streamed, generated or replicated. It's about listening together, breathing together, and finding connection through sound."
Beyond its internationally acclaimed performances, the SXS Chamber Music Festival continues its strong commitment to accessibility, affordability and community participation.
A series of free and low-cost community events ensures everyone can be part of the festival experience. Audiences can enjoy the opening Coming Together concert featuring the Tamborine Mountain Orchestra, local school musicians and a world premiere by Australian composer Monash Salla; the family-friendly Meet the Instruments experience for young audiences; free artist talks; the vibrant Community Folk Music Night at Fortitude Brewing Co.; and immersive events including sound healing and the festival's much-loved Secret Concert. The festival also showcases the next generation of Australian artists through the SXS Next Gen Program and the Margaret Schindler Vocal Scholarship.
Southern Cross Soloists General Manager Maxine Williamson said making world-class cultural experiences accessible remains central to the organisation's mission.
"Regional Queenslanders shouldn't have to travel long distance or spend hundreds of dollars to experience artistic excellence. We've created a festival where internationally acclaimed artists perform in an intimate setting with affordable ticket prices, welcoming everyone—from seasoned music lovers to first- time festival goers."
Set amongst the lush rainforest of Tamborine Mountain, the festival offers far more than concerts. Visitors can enjoy award-winning food by Shambala Estate, local wines, craft beverages, scenic gardens and spectacular mountain views while experiencing intimate one-hour performances throughout the weekend. Just over an hour from Brisbane and less from the Gold Coast, the SXS Chamber Music Festival has become one of Queensland's most distinctive cultural escapes, blending exceptional music with outstanding natural beauty and regional hospitality.
With arts organisations across Australia facing increasing financial pressures, Southern Cross Soloists believes festivals like this have never been more important.
In a world where so much of our lives is mediated through technology, the SXS Chamber Music Festival reminds us that some experiences can only happen when artists and audiences gather together in the same place, at the same moment.
Tickets are available now, with single concerts and festival passes offering an affordable opportunity to experience some of Australia's finest musicians live.
22nd SXS Chamber Music Festival
14–16 August 2026 Shambala Estate, Tamborine Mountain 104 Beacon Road Tamborine (Scenic Rim, QLD)
Tickets: www.sxsfestival.com
About Southern Cross Soloists
Southern Cross Soloists is a Brisbane-based, not-for-profit chamber music ensemble and one of Australia’s most respected arts organisations. Known for its virtuosity, innovation, and commitment to Australian music, SXS presents an annual concert series at QPAC, national touring programs, and major creative projects including its flagship long-running SXS Chamber Music Festival. www.southernxsoloists.com.au
MEDIA CONTACT
Maxine Williamson
General Manager | Southern Cross Soloists
0457 045 301
ENDS
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