Australian composer Cat Hope is launching a new concert series based at Classic Southside, a live music bar upstairs at Classic Cinemas in the Melbourne suburb of Elsternwick. The series, which will feature new and experimental music, will kick off on 11 March with two acts, Candlesnuffer and The Narcoleptor, with more concerts to follow every fortnight.

Chloë Sobek will perform in New Music Classics. Photo supplied

“During the long lockdown and travel restrictions in Melbourne, I got to know my neighbourhood better and wondered why there were not more music events locally, as there seemed to be some great places and people to engage with,” Hope tells Limelight. “As things opened up, I wanted to contribute to my community, and support musicians who have been hit so hard by the pandemic. My own career as a musician means I have artist connections here in Melbourne, interstate and overseas who are keen to perform. I am running the series together with my partner Karl Ockelford, who does the graphic design and sound on the night, and this will be our first venture together.”

The cinema venue seemed like a perfect fit. “I love...