Since forming in Adelaide in 1985 the Australian String Quartet (ASQ) has cemented its position as the country’s pre-eminent organisation dedicated to string quartet music.
And to celebrate 40 years of sublime music the ASQ, in conjunction with CreateSA and the City of Adelaide, is planning a BIG GIG - a day of free performances, exhibitions and immersive experiences at the Adelaide Town Hall.
In partnership with supporting philanthropic foundations and community organisations, the ASQ is welcoming people from across South Australia to experience an up-close performance at the 28 September event.
Each family-friendly session will feature an exclusive performance by the ASQ, a showcase of emerging string quartets, a celebration of the Quartet’s rich history and an opportunity to be fascinated by Square Circles VR, an immersive artwork collaboration by Jumpgate, Go Patterson Films and the Australian String Quartet, directed by William Barton and Stephen King.
ASQ Chief Executive Angelina Zucco said the BIG GIG was an opportunity to celebrate the Quartet’s ruby milestone with the South Australian community.
"Honouring our deep South Australian heritage, the ASQ's BIG GIG is our signatur
e 40th Anniversary celebration for the community," Ms Zucco said.
"It’s a chance to celebrate the ASQ’s rich legacy while showcasing the outstanding breadth of what we do as a national performing arts organisation."
Founded in Adelaide in 1985, the ASQ has been Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium of Music since 1991.
"Our community and supporters have been at the heart of the ASQ since its formation – they've made it possible for us to share music that spans centuries and continents," Ms Zucco said.
"What truly drives us as a quartet is the magical exchange that happens in live performance, those shared moments where music creates genuine connections.
"ASQ's BIG GIG is our chance to celebrate with our longtime supporters while introducing new people to the music we love."
The BIG GIG is the latest addition to the Quartet’s 2025 program, which will conclude with their Convergence national tour in October.
"This has been a year of celebrating life and the power of music with audiences across the country," ASQ violinist Dale Barltrop said.
"BIG GIG presents a major moment to welcome audiences, old and new into the world of the ASQ.
"It’s an opportunity to honour the Quartet’s legacy and place in culture as a living, breathing work of art. It’s also about setting the scene for a shared, artistically rich and exciting future."
Bookings for the ASQ’s BIG GIG are free of charge. It is essential to book in advance to attend the auditorium concerts, as places are limited.
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