The Melbourne International Arts Festival kicks off today, this year featuring performances from some of the world's most innovative and progressive musicians.
Japanese artists Alva Noto and Ryuichi Sakamoto perform a multimedia concert as Insen, combining acoustic piano music with electronic soundscapes, with an LED screen installation providing a visual accompaniment to the music.Aboriginal music is celebrated by The Black Arm Band in their show Murundak, which means 'alive' in the Woiwurrung indigenous language. With special guests including Shane Howard and Paul Kelly, the show "celebrates music as an instrument of identity, resistance and resilience, and a call to freedom."
Nortec Collective, from Tijuana in Mexico, combine modern electronic music with the musical traditions of north-western Mexico, whilst Daniel Bernard Roumain and DJ Scientific will join forces will perform their eclectic mix of breaks and beats with a nine-piece ensemble.
Swiss percussionist Fritz Hauser's show is called Solodrumming, showcasing his unique jazz-infused style, and you can even "celebrate the art of the Ringtone" with a performance by Holland-based The Ringtone Society.
Grammy-nominated Dan Zanes & Friends brings his exuberant rock stylings to more of a family-friendly medium, whilst Irish artist Camille O'Sullivan performs her award-winning cabaret show in the Spiegeltent.
The festival runs until 28 October. Full details are available from the Melbourne Arts Festival website.
