Convent Sounds | October

FAQs

• What is Convent Sounds?

  Convent Sounds is a series of relaxed, family-friendly outdoor concerts in the Heritage Gardens at Abbotsford Convent, presented in partnership with MSO+. Enjoy live music, food and drinks in a beautiful garden setting.

• Who will be performing?

  The October 25 concert features an ensemble of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Brass musicians and Australian National Academy of Music students.

• Is the event suitable for children? Do they need a ticket?

  Absolutely! All ages are welcome, and entry is free for anyone under 18, though they must present their own tickets.

  Guests under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

• What should I bring?

  Bring a picnic rug, sun protection, rain protection and an extra layer for later in the afternoon.

  Low picnic chairs are permitted on the lawn, and Access Seating will be provided for those who need it (see below).

• Can I bring my own food and drink?

  You are welcome to bring your own picnic food and drinks, but BYO alcohol will not be permitted. Bags will be inspected upon entry, and alcohol purchased outside of the event will be discarded.

• How can I pre-purchase a picnic hamper?

  Hamper options will be available as an Add-On to your ticket purchases courtesy of Showtime Event Group. Each hamper is portioned for groups of four.

  Once purchased, hampers will be ready for collection prior to the performance.

  Sales close at 12pm, Thursday 22 October, so be sure to get in quickly!

• What time should I arrive, and how long is the concert?

  We recommend arriving at 3pm to settle on the lawn and enjoy some refreshments.

  The concert will begin at 3.30pm and run until 5pm. The site remains open until 9.30pm.

• What happens if it rains?

  Convent Sounds takes place outdoors, and will proceed in any weather conditions unless unsafe to do so.

  If it becomes necessary to cancel the performance, guests will be able to choose between rescheduling their tickets for the December session, or receiving a full refund.

• Is the event accessible?

  The event is accessible, but it takes place on a steep hill that can be difficult for some people to traverse.

  Our dedicated Access Seating tickets ensure your group receives dedicated space in the flattest parts of the gardens, where traditional seating and wheelchairs can rest most comfortably. Traditional seating will be available to anybody that purchases an Access Seating ticket.

  If you have other accessibility needs, please let us know and we will do our very best to accomodate them.

• Are there toilets nearby?

  Accessible and gender-neutral toilets are located around the site.

  Please ask our team to point you in the right direction.

• Can I bring my dog?

  Your furry friends are more than welcome in the Garden, provided they remain on-leash at all times. Please ensure you pick up and dispose of anything they might leave behind.

  Please be aware the concert is amplified.

• How do I get to the Convent?

  There is a paid car park opposite the Convent for anybody wishing to drive to this event. The car park is ticket-free, and will scan your registration as you enter and exit. The car park takes card payment only. 

  Alternately, to arrive by public transport, you can catch a Mernda or Hurstbridge line train to Victoria Park Station. From there, the Convent is about a 10–15 minute stroll. Or, you can connect via the 200 or 207 bus along Johnston St and get off at the Clarke Street stop, just a short walk from the precinct.