Look, let’s be real – at the moment things could be better in Australia, COVID-wise. No-one’s particularly chuffed at having half the country in lockdown, least of all our battered professional musicians. After a rocky 2020, it almost seemed as if things were getting mostly back to normal in 2021 with performances proceeding as usual, albeit with social distancing knocking audience numbers down. The events of the last few weeks have shown us that it’s all too easy for the rug to be pulled out from under us, which for musicians means yet again, more lost revenue, more frustration, and more uncertainty.

Southern Cross Soloists with didgeridoo soloist Chris Williams

Southern Cross Soloists with didgeridoo soloist Chris Williams. Image supplied

Thank goodness, then, that the Melbourne Digital Concert Hall is stepping in to lend a helping hand. The MDCH notes that “as always, all proceeds will go straight to the performers, providing crucial income at a time when socially distanced livestreaming from an empty venue is the only avenue left”. This Brisbane Gala concert (staged in the Queensland Symphony Orchestra Studio) was added to their program at very short notice, providing...