Listen Forward - A Festival Fundraiser

An Evening to Excite and Savour

Step into an event of casual elegance and inspiration. Enjoy a chilled glass of Prosecco on arrival and indulge in Karen’s renowned cheese board—featuring local artisan cheeses and charcuterie—paired with Chef Jason’s exquisite mezze.

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the sounds of a solo emerging young artist, setting the stage for an exclusive seated performance featuring acclaimed Long Listen Festival artists: Michael Knopf (guitar), Maree Gwynne (singer-songwriter), and Louise King (cello). Expect solos, improvised collaborations, and a sneak peek into our 2025 Long Listen program.

Meet our artists, creatives, mingle with fellow music lovers and festival supporters and be the first to hear what’s in store for our program 3-6 October 2025. Our guests will receive priority access to 2025 festival events and a first invitation to join our Festival Donor Circle.

Limited tickets available – book now for an evening of music, food, and creative connection. 

About Our Fundraiser

Support the sound of the future. Every gift counts. Join us for Listen Forward: An Intimate Long Listen Celebration – a special event designed to celebrate, connect, and grow our Long Listen community of supporters, artists, donors and audience.

All proceeds supports our Long Listen Fundraising Campaign in partnership with ACF Boost program, Creative Australia, Australian Government, closing just two days later on 30 April. Help us reach our stretch target of $10,000. 

Make your ticket, your toast, your gift, your presence – count. Every contribution helps us champion artists, commission new work, and inspire future audiences right here on the Sunshine Coast. Together, we can grow a bold, artist-led festival that places culture in community and sound in the heart of the Sunshine Coast. Let’s Listen Forward. 

Be part of our story. 

Louise King (Founder and Artistic Director on behalf of the Festival Advisory Group)

Meet Our Artists

Our musical program features three extraordinary performers in a rare, intimate collaboration.

Louise King – Acclaimed cellist, festival founder, and boundary-pushing musical force. A graduate of London’s Royal College of Music and Manchester’s Royal Northern College of Music, Louise brings international flair and a fierce passion for creative collaboration. Her performances span classical, jazz, folk, baroque, and experimental sound worlds, described by The Australian as exuding “a vigorous artistry that appeals to a younger generation of music lovers.”

Michael Knopf – A virtuosic classical guitarist and improviser, Michael’s performances are a fusion of the familiar and the unexpected—combining classical repertoire, jazz, bossa nova, and original works. With a musical voice honed over four decades in Australia, he creates evocative soundscapes that cross genres and borders.

Maree Fargo (Maz) – Singer-songwriter, visual artist, and storyteller, Maree brings raw beauty and emotional depth to the stage. With her voice, guitar, and double bass, she weaves folk, Americana, and bluegrass influences into poetic narratives. Her music offers a touch of fermented folklore, steeped in nostalgia and soul.

Together, these artists promise an unforgettable evening of music—spontaneous, heartfelt, and deeply inspired.