[1] Some 30 to 40 chamber musicians from around Australia and the world converge on Townsville, each year to perform and teach emerging artists.
[2] The AFCM is presented in partnership with all three levels of government as well as several commercial, tourism, regional development, and educational, organisations.
The festival was founded in 1990 for a 1991 premiere by Professor Ray Golding, the then Vice-Chancellor of James Cook University and Theodore Kuchar who continued as the artistic director for the next 16 years until 2006.
[4] The festival has tried to avoid a perception that it is only there for cultivated southerners, for example in 2005 for the first time the AFCM had a presence at a Cowboys football match and in 2006 increased publicity focusing locally.
Lane, an Australian, a leading international pianist who is based in London;[5] The 2007 programme involved vocalists and more variety than previous years to appeal to a broader audience, taking a "lifestyle approach" and focussing on music, wine and food.
passed the Artistic Directorship to his friend and colleague, Kathryn Stott, also a leading international pianist based in Manchester; The 2018 programme & Festival was a resounding success with the second highest box office on record.
It is innovative and contemporary whilst still showcasing the classic composers and favourite works of chamber music through the centuries.
Upon arrival at the remote end of Orpheus Island, patrons can enjoy the secluded beach and adjacent national park before settling down for a short performance from festival artists.
In 2006 enthusiastic music lovers, join six musicians (including didgeridoo player William Barton) in a five-day tour of Outback Australia, visiting Cloncurry, Ernest Henry Mine, Mount Isa, Normanton and Karumba focusing on fine food and music and masterclasses with hands on experience of the Queensland mining industry and communities.