Music in the Mountains
By Emily Kennedy
Mention the Blue Mountains
to a travel agent and they’ll tell you about the eucalyptus trees, the
magnificent mountain views and the bushwalk trails. But if you ask a blue
mountaineer, they’ll tell you to see all that and rock out!
The Blue Mountains host a range of concerts and music
festivals throughout the year, and it’s no wonder — with some of the best
natural acoustics in the world, the Blue Mountains
are an impressive venue. Here, Jasons sources the best ways to experience the Blue Mountains through music.
Jenolan Caves Concerts Series (year-round) - On
every fourth Saturday of the month at 4pm, enjoy traditional
Gypsy (Roma) music in a World-Heritage venue: The Lucas Cave's Cathedral
Chamber. The caves provide natural acoustics and temperature control (warm in
winter, cool in summer) with complimentary wine and cheese after each show.
These concerts in the caves are a must-see and hear! Adults AUD$60, children AUD$35.
For concert bookings phone +61 2 6359 3911 or visit www.georgcello.com/gypsy.htm.
Blue Mountains Music Festival (18 – 20 March 2011) – What
better place to experience blues music than in the Blue
Mountains? The Blue Mountains Music Festival features folk, roots
and blues music every March in Katoomba. The festival grounds are just a short
walk from the town’s shops, cafes and restaurants, and offer market stalls,
workshops, food and drink in a unique musical atmosphere. Visit www.bmff.org.au
for details.
Ironfest (April) – Offering a different kind of heavy metal,
Ironfest features art exhibitions, blacksmithing demonstrations, workshops,
automotive displays and lots more. With four stages, as well as roving
performers, check out the eclectic mix of music at this cool arts festival with
a metal edge. Held in April at Lithgow. For tickets visit www.ironfest.net.
Winter Magic Festival and Yulefest (18 June 2011) – Parade,
fireworks, art, music! The Winter Magic Festival and Yulefest has it all! Over
seven stages feature everything from busking to drumming, to roots and acoustic
folk music. You’ll be sure to find a performance for you and the family during
the Winter Magic Festival and Yulefest going on in Katoomba in June. Visit www.wintermagic.com.au
for festival details.
Leura Garden Festival (1-9 October 2011) - In a blaze of
springtime flowering, the Leura Garden Festival welcomes visitor’s from all
over the world. Between the magnificent displays of azaleas, rhodo-dendrons,
dogwoods and camellias you’ll find their Music in the Gardens series featuring
a number of local musicians playing jazz, string, flute, choir and Latin music.
Visit www.leuragardensfestival.com
for ticket prices and more information.
Carols by Candlelight (December) - Experience the acoustics
of the Grand Arch through Carols by Candlelight — a truly magical event! See http://www.visitbluemountains.com.au for more information.
Enter our competition to win a night at the Jenolan Caves!
