Details

Calling all Jane Austen aficionados and classical music lovers, travel back in time to rural England in the 18th and 19th centuries and relive the romance, drama and music of the era.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen is a literary luminary. Austen’s razor-sharp social commentary, astute character studies and sparkling dialogue resonate across generations.

There is no charm equal to the world that Jane Austen has created through her words, where timeless tales of love and society’s intricacies collide with melodies that transcend centuries. Austen’s words have left an indelible mark on literature, and her influence extends beyond the pages of her books, shaping films, television adaptations, art and of course, music.

Just as Caroline Bingley exclaims in Pride and Prejudice ‘there is no enjoyment like reading!’, here at Melbourne Recital Centre we feel the same about music. That is why we have curated a glittering selection of music from some of the greatest films of Jane Austen’s works, music from the Austen era, and music she refers to and reflects on in her writings.

Dress as your favourite Jane Austen character and immerse yourself in gorgeous music from Jane Austen’s world including Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility, plus delightful works by Mozart, Beethoven and Purcell.

And as Anne remarks to Mr. Elliot in Persuasion, Austen’s sixth and last completed novel, ‘my idea of good company … is the company of clever, well-informed people, who have a great deal of conversation…’ be sure to join us after the concert for a talk delving into the music, writing and times of the iconic Austen era. Whether you prefer to converse or listen, all are welcome.

Please note, due to unforeseen circumstances, we are sorry to advise that the evening performance of Jane Austen’s Music on Saturday 4 May at 7pm has been cancelled.

Post-Concert Talk

Following this extraordinary performance, Rachael Beesley and Aura Go join Melbourne Recital Centre’s Director of Programming, Marshall McGuire, in the ground floor foyer for a 20-minute discussion about the music. Take a seat and enjoy this perfect conclusion to your musical experience.

Caring for Our Community

Melbourne Recital Centre is committed to the safety of our artists, staff and patrons. A range of public health, hygiene and physical distancing measures are currently in place. Click here to learn more.

Artists & Program

Artists

Rachael Beesley music director
Aura Go piano
Lizzy Bennet’s Band

Program

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Piano Sonata No. 16 in C, K. 545
i. Allegro

‘March’ from Le nozze di Figaro K.492

Carl Davis
Opening Music from Pride and Prejudice

Patrick Doyle
‘My Father’s Favourite’ from Sense and Sensibility

Ludwig van Beethoven
Bagatelle No.25 in A minor ‘Für Elise’ WoO 59

Patrick Doyle
‘Willoughby’ from Sense and Sensibility

George Frideric Handel
Hornpipe from Water Music HWV 349

Anonymous
Grimstock

Traditional
Mrs Huston’s Strathspey

Nathaniel Gow
Mrs Rutherford of Egerton

Henry Purcell
Abdelazer, Z.570
ii. Rondeau
iii. Air in D
iv. Air in G
v. Minuet
vi. Air in G minor
vii. Jig
viii. Hornpipe ‘Hole in the Wall’

‘Chaconne’ from The Fairy Queen Z. 629

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Piano Concerto No.21 in C K 467
i. Allegro maestoso
ii. Andante
iii. Allegro vivace assai

Read the Program Notes