After the enthusiastic reception pianist Josh Hooke has received over the past two
years, inviting him to open POMEG’s 2026 concert series was an easy decision.
Josh is one of regional Victoria’s standout musical talents, with a growing reputation for excellence both in Australia and overseas.
His studies have included tuition from Imogen Cooper in London and Paul Badura-Skoda in Vienna. He holds a Doctorate in Musical Performance from the University of Melbourne, and his performances consistently attract high praise for their technique, musicality and versatility.
The program Josh brings to this concert showcases these qualities through a diverse and expressive selection of repertoire. The afternoon opens with Mozart’s Fantasie in C minor, known for its striking contrasts in mood and modulation. The remainder of the pre-interval program is devoted to Frédéric Chopin, beginning with the much-loved Ballade No. 1 in G minor, rich in narrative and shifting light and shade, followed by a selection of Chopin’s Études, Op. 10.
After interval, Josh performs Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, a vivid musical journey through an art gallery that has become a cornerstone of the virtuoso piano repertoire. The work has also inspired numerous arrangements, most famously Maurice
Ravel’s orchestration.
Josh is among the finest pianists you are likely
to hear anywhere, and it is a pleasure to welcome him back to Bairnsdale. Mark the date for an afternoon
of inspiring and
memorable music.
The concert will be held on Sunday, May 3, at Bairnsdale Uniting Church, corner of Great Alpine Road and Lanes Road, Lucknow. Tea and coffee will be available during interval.
Pay at the door. School students free.
