David Speers was irritated when Bronwyn Bishop spoke about the Sydney International Piano Competition when he wanted her to dish the dirt on her resignation as Speaker. The fact is, Bronwyn has a genuine and longstanding commitment to the Piano Competition as Chairman of its Friends organisation. Only a couple of weeks ago she participated in the announcement & draw of the 32 competitors. Held every four years, this year’s will be the 11th since it was established in 1977 by then Conservatorium Director Rex Hobcroft with the patronage of Claire Dan. The Competition’s new Artistic Director is distinguished pianist Piers Lane who chose the competitors from a large group of applicants; their origins ranging from Moscow to Minneapolis, Hanoi to Hogsbo, Darwin to Mordialloc. The first prize is $50,000; there are 22 other prizes and promises of prestigous engagements. The competition runs from 6 to 23 July.

It’s a busy winter for Lane because he is also artistic director, for the 10th time, of the annual Australian Festival of Chamber Music held in the tropical glory of Townsville from 29 July to 6 August. This delightful festival, now in its 26th year, has charming programming of 30 concerts, including one on the beach of Orpheus Island (another is Bach by Candlelight, another The Governor’s Gala), performed by outstanding international musicians including the winner of the Sydney International Piano Competition. Still time to go!

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