Adelaide Clarinet & Saxophone Festival 2026
Description
The Adelaide Clarinet & Saxophone Festival is a two-day celebration of music, learning, and community, bringing together players of all ages and experience levels from across South Australia. Held at Elder Hall, the festival features inspiring concerts, hands-on workshops, masterclasses with leading artists, and a large-scale massed ensemble performance.
Whether you’re a musician or music lover, join us for a vibrant weekend showcasing the clarinet and saxophone community.
Special guests include Nick Russoniello (NSW) and Diana Tolmie (Qld), alongside Dean Newcomb, Tim Clarkson, Vashti Tyrrell, Emma Gregan, Lloyd Van't Hoff, and Kate Mawson (SA).
Full Festival Registration is for participants!
This includes entry to the Gala Concert (SATURDAY), and participation in the Festival Program and Massed Ensemble Performance (SUNDAY).
Combined Concert Pass is for audience members!
This grants admission to both the Gala Concert (SATURDAY) and Massed Ensemble Performance (SUNDAY).
Performance Opportunities
Opportunities exist to perform in sessions within the Festival program. If you would like to participate in any of these sessions detailed below as a performer, please advise when completing your registration.
* SOLD OUT * Masterclass (15 minutes; limited places) - perform in masterclasses with Nick Russoniello or Diana Tolmie. Accompanist supplied. 15 minute session per performer.
Additional fee $30
If you wish to perform in this session please book the ‘Masterclass Add-On’ during registration.
* SESSION FULL * Chamber Spectacular (10 minutes; limited places) - perform on the Elder Hall stage in a small ensemble. All instruments, ages, and abilities welcome. 10 minute time limit for all performances.
No additional fee.
If you wish to perform in this session please book the 'Chamber Spectacular' during registration and provide details of your ensemble type and ensemble members when prompted.
Note: participants may only register to perform in a single ensemble.
Massed Ensemble - all participants are encouraged to take part in the massed ensemble rehearsal and concert (Sunday afternoon). Part allocations and sheet music will be provided in advance (via email).
If you do not wish to perform in the massed ensemble please advise during registration.
Agenda
- 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Gala Concert (SATURDAY)
Experience Adelaide’s finest clarinet and saxophone players in a vibrant Gala Concert showcasing the full range of single-reed instruments. Featuring guest soloists Nick Russoniello and Diana Tolmie, alongside musicians from the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Elder Conservatorium, Band of the South Australian Police, and Adelaide Wind Orchestra. Entry via Full Festival Registration or with a Combined Concert Pass.
- 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Festival Program (SUNDAY)
Festival day offers a diverse program of workshops, masterclasses, and performances led by leading local and interstate practitioners. Sessions span all aspects of playing and musicianship - from fundamental technique and ensemble skills to wellbeing, performance preparation, and specialist topics - with a mix of hands-on participation and opportunities to observe and learn. The day also features masterclasses with leading Australian performers, and a Chamber Spectacular where ensembles can nominate to perform. All participants are invited to bring their instruments to take part in the massed ensemble, conducted by Kate Mawson. Trade stalls and vendors will be present throughout the day to showcase instruments and equipment, answer questions, and support the festival. Entry via Full Festival Registration.
- 4:15 pm - 5:00 pm
Massed Ensemble Performance (SUNDAY)
Join us for the grand finale of the festival - a Massed Ensemble Concert bringing together all participants under the baton of Kate Mawson. Featuring a newly commissioned work by Elder Conservatorium composition student, Belle Smibert. Entry via Full Festival Registration or with a Combined Concert Pass.
Venue Partner
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Supporting Sponsor
Festival Schedule at a Glance
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