The Queensland Music Festival is shaping up to be a big one this year, with the annual event announcing its 20th anniversary program today.

For 20 years now, the Queensland Music Festival has bringing eclectic artists and performances up the northern quarter of the country, providing a unique opportunity for members of the Australian public to experience a rich tapestry of events.

Now, with the festival set to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the QMF has dropped its program for 2019.

Focusing on musical excellence, curiosity and creation, public participation and making a difference through music, the biennial event cements its place as the “largest, most diverse music festival in the world”.

With Katie Noonan overseeing the Artistic Direction of the festival, the iconic musician is also set to deliver a number of projects, including tributes to women’s rights campaigner Merle Thornton, and genius Queensland composer John Rogers, as well as projects that will not only help discover the next generation of Queensland composers, but to focus on important pieces of Indigenous musical history.

“The 2019 Queensland Music Festival program is a true reflection of the paths the event has walked over its last twenty years,” Katie Noonan explained.

“Queensland Music Festival has always reflected the Queensland of yesterday, today and tomorrow and this year’s event is a true representation of that,’ she added. “It shines a light on things Queenslanders hold dear, hidden stories of our state and gives opportunity for the public to participate.”

“Anyone with a voice can sing and using music to engage, educate and inspire is what Queensland Music Festival is about.”

So what’s on this year? Well, it’s an immensely eclectic lineup, proving that there’s something for everyone on offer, but notable events include the festival’s signature Mount Isa Blast, as well the return of Opera at Jimbour, an annual event set to serve as a musical gala featuring the greatest opera classics of all time.

Likewise, two-time ARIA Hall of Fame inductee Glenn Shorrock will lead a choir of thousands in singing ‘‘Help Is On Its Way’ to help focus on mental health, while Luke Jerram’s Play Me, I’m Yours artwork installation will see a number of pianos spread out around the city, offering people the chance to expand their creative horizons.

Of course, this is merely scratching the surface, so for an in-depth run through, be sure to check out the full program, which is available over at the Queensland Music Festival website.

Check out the Queensland Music Festival launch video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2hAAzoFxXs

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