Riverlinks, Media Release, 4 May 2026

The Australian Chamber Orchestra’s critically acclaimed string ensemble ACO Collective brings together musicians of the ACO with Australia’s most talented young string players, proudly mentoring and touring a generation of musicians since 2007.

For its pure clarity, invention and grace, J.S. Bach’s Violin Sonata No.1 in G minor is music close to the orchestra’s heart, performed in an expansive arrangement for 17-piece string orchestra directed by ACO Principal Violin Satu Vänskä.

Like Bach, the timeless work of Arvo Pärt – one of the world’s most performed living composers – seemingly reaches out to touch eternity. A work that seems to suspend time itself, Pärt’s Fratres oscillates between the frenetically energetic and the achingly sublime, a profound reflection on the human condition.

With a passion for cutting-edge programming, the orchestra will perform contemporary songs including Nick Drake’s River Man and Radiohead’s Harry Patch (In Memory Of), as well as works written especially for the ACO, including Nigel Westlake’s serenely beautiful Ascension, and the world premiere of a brand new commission by Australian composer Olivia Bettina Davies.

Culminating with the warmth and generosity of Brahms’s String Sextet in G major, Op.36, rich in colour and expansive in spirit, this is radiant chamber music at its most sumptuous.

Riverlinks Manager Matthew Schroeders says,

“We’re so excited to welcome the ACO Collective to Riverlinks Eastbank — it’s a real thrill to bring this level of chamber music to Shepparton. This program has everything: Bach and Brahms alongside Radiohead and Nick Drake, plus a brand-new world premiere by Olivia Bettina Davies. And knowing the ACO is mentoring brilliant young players as they tour makes the night feel even more special — this is one you won’t want to miss”

Tickets are available online or through the Riverlinks Box Office: 03 5832 9511.

For the full selection of shows on offer, visit www.riverlinksvenues.com.au/whats-on.

Quotes:

“The Australian Chamber Orchestra’s emerging talent arm, ACO Collective, is blazing a promising trail into the artform’s next era.” – The Age

“The collective sound of ACO Collective is exquisite and homogenous, a tribute to the musicians of the Australian Chamber Orchestra, who have sought these rare talents.” – The Sydney Morning Herald