MUSIC AND SOUND EVENTS
Our curated events are food for the soul. We love offering unique and uplifting music soundscapes for deep listening.
PAST EVENTS
Saturday 14 December
Time: 7.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Whispering Sky
Tenzin Choegyal and Tenzin Kunsang
Open Space presents a concert performance with two acclaimed Tibetan performers, Tenzin Choegyal (Australia) and Tenzin Kunsang (Japan).
Tenzin Choegyal feels a particular connection to the music of the Himalayan plateau and remains dedicated to preserving Tibet’s musical traditions. At the same time, he effortlessly embraces diverse genres and musical styles, bringing Tibetan music firmly into the contemporary world. Tenzin Kunsang is a classically trained Tibetan singer, dancer and multi-instrumentalist and second-generation Tibetan refugee. They come together to present Whispering Sky, a beautiful fusion that crosses cultural boundaries and conjures up images of the high plains and mountains of Tibet.
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-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $44 + booking fee ($55 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= About Tenzin Choegyal and Tenzin Kunsang =-
Drawing on their common ancestry, Tibetan artists Tenzin Kunsang and Tenzin Choegyal have formed a special artistic and personal connection.
Kunsang is a gifted multi-instrumentalist, composer, dancer and classically trained performer of traditional Tibetan opera, while Tenzin’s talent as a singer-songwriter has established him as one of the most significant Tibetan performers on the international stage.
Tenzin has been on a life-long musical pilgrimage since his early years in Dharamsala, a refugee village in India. Now based in Brisbane, he draws on his Tibetan nomadic roots to perform traditional vocals accompanied by his dranyen (Tibetan lute) and lingbu (bamboo flute). At the same time, he delves into diverse musical styles and pushes the boundaries both in the studio and on stage, along with an international cast of collaborators including Philip Glass and Laurie Anderson.
Now living in Nagano, Japan, Kunsang studied traditional singing, dance and opera at the prestigious Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts in Dharamsala, India. He performs vocals and plays dranyen, erhu, bansuri and several other traditional instruments,skilfully fusing Japanese, Korean and Tibetan music and dance. Kunsang’s performances in Australia feature the elaborate costumes and complex choreography of traditional Cham or sacred Tibetan dance. A centuries old ritual, Cham dance is a feature of many Tibetan festivals, often seen as a practice for purification and overcoming negative obstacles.
Tenzin and Kunsang share a belief in music as a universal form of communication and a powerful medium for cultural exchange. They both look forward to sharing their music and stories with audiences around Australia.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 7th December
4.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Open Heart Kirtan at The Open Space
Join us at the Open Space for a special 4-hr extended end of year Kirtan
Singing has long been known as a means of expression for the soul. Kirtan provides a medium where singers and non singers can engage in this practice in a safe and supportive environment. Kirtan belongs to that area of practice know as Bhakti (devotional) yoga and is renowned for its capacity to open hearts and reach towards the higher self.
At Open Space we come together every month in a larger gathering to experience the divine energy of Kirtan.
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-= Event Flow =-
3:30 pm - Doors open
4 pm - Kirtan starts
5:30 pm - Intermission
6 pm - Food and chai (by donation)
7 pm - Kirtan resumes
8:30 pm - Evening concludes
-= Details =-
The event is by donation and we provide a delicious plant based meal and non-dairy chai. All funds received are passed on as donations to support the Sansar Gyaan Pathshala School. Located in rural northern India, the school provides free education in an area where many children, especially girls, would not otherwise receive education. The school is fully operational and provides for over 300 students of primary school age together with scholarships to allow for further education.All are welcome at Open Space Kirtan. Doors open at 3.30pm. Kirtan at 4.00pm. Please register through Humanitix for organisational purposes.
+ Chai and plant based meal available (by donation).
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
+ Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times inside and outside the venue.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Saturday 30th November
7.00pm - 8.15 pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Omnisutra Sumeria
Mediative Deep Listening Journey
Please join us for a musical rendition of the oldest known goddess chant, and the Sumerian creation story, sung in the original Sumerian with music by Omnisutra.
The Enuma Elish, over 4000 years old, is the sung creation story from the Sumerian, Akadian and Babylonian civilizations. It sings of how the mother of chaos and god of the underworld crated the universe, but then the father of order Marduk (Jupiter) created order in our solar system allowing life on earth to flow with the motions of the planets. It is a song about astrology...
The Raising of the Hand to Ishtar is one of the oldest most complete Goddess invocations in history. It sings to Ishtar, Inanna, Venus, the supreme goddess of nature and human culture and the moods and motions of change through which we must grow...
Omnisutra is band that re animates ancient Holy songs in their original language, with some musical resemblance to the folk music from where it came, and some improvisation and embellishment. With such mystical presence the piece is never played the same way twice.
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-= The Omnisutra Ensemble =-
Vocals and Daf: Gavin Shri Amneon - a mystic, artist and music producer, working mostly with the traditions of the Holy Kabbalah and Tantra, has been working with and teaching these mystical methods for personal and cultural development for over 30 years.
Oud: Will Thompson
Clarinet and sound production: Michael plays a range of wind instruments including bass and soprano clarinet, Ancient Greek Aulos, yidaki (didgeridoo) and blues harp. He currently plays in a several ensembles and as a solo musician creating soundscapes for dance and movement artists. He recently accompanied several dance artists at the 2024 Malaka Arts Festival and the 2024 Melbourne Fringe. His ensemble work includes a ten piece kirtan band, an eight piece sound bath orchestra, as well as being a member of Omnisutra.
Vocals: Portia Nora - Portia is a Hong Kong born vocalist, whose singing touches upon an eclectic mix of jazz (swing, Brazilian Bossa Nova and Latin rhythms), intuitive sound healing meditations and cross-cultural improvisations. She is inspired by the power of sound, especially the voice, when it is used creatively to bring meaning and focus to life. Outside of performance, Portia dedicates her time nurturing her voice and piano students at her vocal studio.-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $40 + booking fee ($50 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Sunday 20th October 2024
6.00pm - 7.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Sound Shower with Avishai
Come bathe in pure sounds that will take you on a deeply transformational journey
The Soundshower combines chimes, tibetan bowls, flutes and vocal harmonics. During a session you will be invited to lie down and immerse in vibrations created by these special instruments. Throughout the “Shower” different instruments are carried around the room and sometimes placed physically on the body. Flutes and voice are used to create a magical musical journey and overtones charge the brain and energize the body.
Exposure to these healing frequencies enhances a physical, mental and emotional calibration to the human body and energy field. Pure frequencies shift and release stagnant energy and tension accumulated in the body. The Soundshower re-aligns and harmonizes body/mind and is a very relaxing and refreshing experience. It releases stress and anxiety increasing focus clarity and insight.
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-= Tickets =-
Cost: $49 ($55 at the door)
-= About Avishai Barnatan =-
Is a Multi instrumentalist, producer and Sound therapist. Since 1990 he has been exploring the nature of sound and its therapeutic qualities as a tool for physical & emotional transformation and healing. Inspired by modern scientific research as well as ancient esoteric and mystic knowledge, he has developed his own approach and style of soundhealing . He facilitates group and private sessions for the general public as well as with people of diverse conditions such as various addictions, anxiety and stress-related symptoms, applying different techniques of vibrational therapy. These sessions are a deeply nourishing experience.
Avishai has facilitated “Soundshowers” in festivals such as Wanderlust, Byron Spirit festival, Evolve Yoga fest, Jerusalem Sacred Music Festival and Uplift festival. He regularly holds sessions at venues around Australia.
"Avishai’s Soundshower represents a powerful prescription for calming brain activity, lowering blood pressure, and reducing breathing and heart rates, physiologic states that help reverse the damaging effects of today’s world of chronic stress."
- Bruce Lipton
"Avishai Barnatan's music uplifts the consciousness of anyone who listens to it. I first met Avishai in Australia in 2013, where I heard him play his music live. After hearing it, I was hooked! I have recommended Avishai's music to many people seeking ways to access deeper levels of consciousness, as it is my hope that by sharing such music, we can change the world."
- Anita Moorjani - New York Times bestselling author of "Dying To Be Me"
Sample of the sound shower: https://youtu.be/AIXVEE5XSrU
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 19th October 2024
7pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
ZÖJ - a deep listening
An exploration of identity, place, and the bridging of cultures.
ZÖJ will bring this very special deep listening experience to Open Space in October. A one hour+ meditative journey through their music referencing their award winning album Fil O Fenjoon and their coming 2025 album and everything else ZÖJ-like. You will have the opportunity to sit or lie down and dive deeply into the musical journey that is ZÖJ - to accommodate this special event and the option to recline in the studio numbers will be limited so get in early to avoid disappointment.
"Exhilarating and heart-stoppingly beautiful." - Andrew Ford
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Through emotionally raw soundscapes, ZÖJ share their lives, and reactions to the world around them. Where borders blur, cultures intertwine, and the complexities of belonging and origin sit alongside those of the present and future.
Are we defined by where we’re from, where we are, or where we’re headed?
ZÖJ’s music invites audiences to challenge the notion of a singular identity, question whether we truly belong to just one place, and ponder what it means to belong. Do our differences define us, or does our shared humanity transcend geographical boundaries.
Gelareh Pour’s kamancheh, voice, and poetry blend seamlessly with Brian O’Dwyer’s drum kit, creating a dialogue between Iranian and Australian landscapes. The wood in Gelareh’s kamancheh comes from Iran, while Brian’s drum kit is crafted from Australia.
These instruments, made by Iranian and Australian artisans, symbolise the convergence of diverse influences and the creation of something new and unique.
The makers, like the musicians, are shaped by their environments and traditions, leading to countless crossovers in their work. A ZÖJ performance is a tapestry of cultural exchange, where each note and beat carries the weight of history, heritage, and personal experience. In this way, the sounds not only entertain but also prompt reflection on the value of being born in different places while being present with all that we carry.
Does it matter where we come from, or are we all part of the same human experience?
ZÖJ invites you to find answers within yourself, to transcend boundaries and celebrate our shared humanity.
Listen to ZÖJ’s critically acclaimed debut full-length album here: https://zojduet.bandcamp.com/album/fil-o-fenjoon
-= Awards =-
Music Victoria Awards
• 2020 & 2021 - Gelareh Pour and Brian O’Dwyer (Industry voted Award for Best Inter-Cultural Act)
Art Music Awards - APRA AMCOS & Australian Music Centre
• 2020 - Gelareh Pour and Brian O’Dwyer (Excellence in experimental music)
• 2022 - Zöj (Performance of the year - jazz/improvised music)
-= About Gelareh Pour =-
Iranian born, Persian Kamancheh and Qeychak player, singer, songwriter Gelareh Pour, studied her BA at the Art University of Tehran’s conservatorium and her Masters of Ethnomusicology at The University of Melbourne. She has completed her unique academic research on ‘The Lives of Iranian Women Singers in Diaspora’ at MCM in which she introduces the professional aspects of seven selected Iranian female singers’ lives before and after migration.
Gelareh has performed in Iran, Tajikistan, through-out Europe and Australia. Since arriving in Australia, she has collaborated with some of the country’s most innovative musicians and organisations such as Australian Art Orchestra, Punctum, Rubiks Collective, Cultural Infusion, ANU, University of Melbourne, Boîte, Multicultural Arts Victoria and more. Her flexibility and interest in different cultures and genres sees her working across a variety of music scenes, including, improvised, experimental, cross-cultural, classical, electronic, new music and many more.
Gelareh continues to work with a variety of musicians across many genres, with a focus on new Australian music.
-= About Brian O’Dwyer =-
Brian O’Dwyer is a western experimental percussionist/drummer has been recording and producing music since the mid-late 90’s. Brian explores across genres with a specific focus on cross-cultural and new music.
Personally interested in sound as connection, exploring the moment in which musician and listener impact equally through reaction and response, Brian’s approach to percussion and drumming involves incredible dynamic shift, ebbing and flowing with the various influences of the room.
As a self-taught musician, Brian’s technique has been developed largely by abstract concepts in music that have seen him largely remove traditional modes of western music from his playing, often concentrating performances on texture, shape, contrast, and colour. Ultimately, Brian’s fundamentals are centred in communication, developing fluent language with other performers, audience, and environment.
Brian has recorded and produced over 50 music releases that span multiple genres. He is an accomplished electronic soundscape musician and producer and has performed live with numerous acts.
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $40 + booking fee ($50 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Friday 16th August 2024
7.00pm - 8.15pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Mystical Duet
European Masters of Sound Healing
An absorbing musical journey into the most intimate dimensions of sound with Czech multi-instrumental duo Ivo Sedlacek & Pavel Sedlacek.
Ivo and Pavel return to Australia for their fourth tour and we are deeply honoured to welcome them into Open Space. Hailing from the Czech Republic, these two are truly musicians of the World - having created music and performed in Europe, USA, Canada, Japan, Taiwan, Namibia, Australia and Jordan. Their music is often inspired by a deep response to the natural landscapes they spend much of their time in during their travels.
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Their concert will open an absorbing musical journey into the most intimate dimensions of sound – something you may have never heard before: uplifting, relaxing and deeply touching. During the concert you will hear the unique "spherical violin Orion” with 33 strings (the only instrument of its kind in the world), as well as handpan, guitar, tuned glass.
Ivo is a graduate from the Academy of Music in Prague (where he studied violin) and then he spent 5 years on postgraduate music study in India. During the years he has created more than 25 albums with his own original music and his music has brought peace, inspiration and inner harmony to countless listeners around the globe.Pavel is a multi-instrumentalist and one of the most remarkable world virtuoso players on the unique musical instrument, the handpan.
-= Tickets =-Tickets: $35 + booking fee ($45 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Sunday 11th August 2024
6pm - 8pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Sound Spheres
Come join Sound Spheres, a collaboration between Ben Last (Temple Step) and Madhu Honey, for a unique and immersive event that will take you on an inner pilgrimage of sound and self-discovery.
Incorporating Sound Healing, Guided Meditation, and Somatic Sensing. Expect this experience to be a beautifully woven journey through the elements and beyond.
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Ben Last will work his sonic wizardry using Ableton Live, Effects, and Midi controller keyboards to create a multi-layered sound bed that infuses a cinematic soundtrack with elemental soundscape. Each element - Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Ether - will be correlated to chakra-tuned root notes, facilitating deep integration, transformation, and renewal within you.
Madhu Honey will add her multilayered voice, guiding you through with meditation and percussion, adding another layer to this rich and immersive experience. Together, Ben Last and Madhu Honey will create a synergistic fusion of sound and energy that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, and deeply connected to yourself and the world around you.
Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a sensory journey unlike any other. Join Sound Spheres as they create a space for you to explore the depths of sound and consciousness, and emerge with a renewed sense of self and inner harmony. Come prepared to embark on an inner pilgrimage of sound and embark on a transformative experience that will leave you feeling uplifted, cantered, and inspired.
-= Evening Flow =-
6.00pm - Arrive to a complimentary chai & settle in.
6:30pm - Sound Spheres Experience.
7.45pm - Integration, closure & tea.
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $40 + booking fee
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 22nd June 2024
7pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
A celebration of the Winter solstice and the June Full moon
A musical rendition of the Egyptian Book of the Dead
Please join us for a sound immersion of song and live music set to the ancient text The Egyptian Book of the Dead, sung in the original ancient Egyptian language by Gavin Shri Amneon. This event is an invocation to the God TeHuti - Thoth - Hermes, the god of science, magic, healing and music, writing and knowledge. Lay back and be taken on a journey to ancient Egypt, and receive its mystical knowledge transmission.
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Omnisutra is a group of people devoted to reanimating ancient Holy songs to music in their original language.
Michael Green on Clarinet, William Thompson on Oud, and Gavin Shri Amneon on Daf and vocals.
The studio will be set up so that you may lie down to absorb the music in its fullness, or to sit or move if you wish.
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $40 + booking fee ($50 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-Held @ The Open Space 11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Sunday 2nd June 2024
6.00pm - 7.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Sound as Soma
The Open Space welcomes you to join us on a pilgrimage into sonic bliss with a powerful Sound Bath experience brought to you by a ten piece sound orchestra.
The Soma Ensemble incorporates Singing Bowls, Gongs, Percussion, a range of wind and string instruments, together with several vocalists into a multi-layered musical experience. The focus of the sound immersion is facilitation of a meditation on the chakra system identified within the classical kundalini yoga tradition. This event is a regular fixture at The Open Space, curated by sound artist and musician, Mat Creedon.
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You will experience a guided meditation through the seven major chakras via sound and voice, leading to a deep state of relaxation. Specific sound frequencies, tonal systems and the particular resonances of different instruments are combined and curated to inspire a meditative state. Through engagement with a guided processes you will be led into an experience of the individual chakras and their place in the manifestation of creativity and vitality.
-= The Soma Ensemble comprises =-
Mat Creedon: Musical Director, Tibetan Singing Bowls, Gongs, Hand Pan & Tuning Forks, Acoustic guitar
Portia Tang: Vocals
Michael Green: bass and soprano clarinets
Madi Frances: Piano
Denise Jenkins: Mrindangam drum
Winton Terry: Tibetan Singing Bowls, Didgeridoo and the Bougarabou
Katie Nova: Violin
Janaki: Vocals, autoharp
Simon Hodgson: Percussion
Rick Corti: Native American Flute & Djembe
David Loochie: Cajon, keyboards
Kuljit: Tabla
Emily Rosner: Harp
-= Evening Flow =-
5.30pm - Studio space opens for settling in and intro
6.00pm - 7.30pm - Sound bath
-= Bring with you =-
A cushion and blanket.
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $35 + booking fee ($45 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 23th March 2024
6.30pm - 8.00pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Mat Creedon & The Soma Ensemble
SOLD OUT
The Open Space welcomes you to join us on a pilgrimage into sonic bliss with a powerful Sound Bath experience that incorporates large Tibetan Singing Bowls, Gongs, Tuning forks, Rain Sticks, Wind Chimes and Voice. In addition, your journey into bliss will be accompanied by musicians on drums, bass clarinet, hand pan, violin, flute, and piano.
Curated by Mat Creedon & the inspired talent of The Soma Ensemble.
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Imagine a sound bath with sound healers / musicians playing multiple instruments, with the intention to create a powerful healing experience.
Combining the love of spontaneous live performance, deep meditation & dreaming big.
Enter with us into a journey through the 7 Chakras where you are immersed in the healing energies of pure live acoustic vibrations.
Using sound waves at different frequencies to realign the cells in your body to their natural and optimal vibrational state.
Combining authentic seven large metal Tibetan Healing Bowls & Medicine Gongs, tuned specifically for corresponding chakra’s layered with complimentary acoustic instruments.
Each chakra has its own specific frequency, Mat orchestrates a combination of Instruments to help heal and rebalance. Drums for the root chakra, Woodwinds for the Sacral, Hand pan for the Solar Plexus, Strings for the heart, Flute & Voice for the Throat, Piano for the Third Eye, & Wind chimes / Tuning forks for the Crown.
While Mat resonates with each chakra in turn, tuning in with a matched Healing Bowl / Gong, the Soma Ensemble weaves a spontaneous layered live composition.
Each musician / Sound healer, finds a matching resonance through their instrument as a unique spontaneous composition. This talented collective of Sound Healers / musicians is a powerful healing experience not to be missed!
Mat writes “I have always wanted to put together a large ensemble, the energy of many talented musicians coming together is always an exciting experience. A little while ago a Sound Therapist said she would like to assemble a Sound Bath Orchestra and immediately I thought, yes that sounds like something that needs to be done!”
-= Mat Creedon =-
Artist, Sound Healer, Composer, Producer, Teacher
For the past 33 years Mat has provided a broad range of music & Healing services, both locally and abroad, as an Artist, Sound Therapist, Reiki Master, Teacher, Composer, Producer, multi-Instrumentalist, & Mixing / Mastering Engineer.
He has also been a student of many wonderful music/spiritual teachers including Lama Tendar.
Mat Creedon: Tibetan Singing Bowls, Gongs, Hand Pan & Tuning Forks
-= The Soma Ensemble =-
Portia Tang: Vocals
Michael Green: bass and soprano clarinets
Madi Frances: Piano
Denise Jenkins: Mrindangam drum
Winton Terry: Tibetan Singing Bowls, Didgeridoo and the Bougarabou
Katie Nova: Violin
Janaki: Guitar & Harp
Simon Hodgson: Percussion
Rick Corti: Native American Flute & Djembe
David Loochie: Cajon
Kuljit: Tabla
-= Evening Flow =-
6.30pm - Studio space opens for settling in and intro
7.00pm - 8.30pm - Sound bath
-= Bring with you =-
A cushion and blanket.
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $35 + booking fee ($45 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 2nd March 2024
6.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Open Heart Kirtan at The Open Space
Our next Open Heart Kirtan will be dedicated to the auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri which celebrates the Hindu deity Shiva. Shiva symbolises destruction and transformation and the great cycle of life.
Alongside our great Open Heart regulars, this month we have Chakra Baba from Chant and Chai and Briony Ruse from Garden of Kirtan. Both of them from the original Bhakti Sunset band, they are bringing their soulful and uplifting voices to our Kirtan.
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The event is by donation and we provide a delicious plant based meal and non-dairy chai. All funds received are passed on as donations to support the Sansar Gyaan Pathshala School. Located in rural northern India, the school provides free education in an area where many children, especially girls, would not otherwise receive education. The school is fully operational and provides for over 300 students of primary school age together with scholarships to allow for further education.
All are welcome at Open Space Kirtan. Doors open at 6.00pm. Kirtan at 7.00pm. Please register through Eventbrite for organisational purposes.
+ Chai and plant based meal available (by donation).
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
+ Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times inside and outside the venue.
+ Register early to save your spot!
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Sunday 18th February 2024
5.00pm - 7.00pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Vinay Desai - Indian Classical Music Concert
Vinay supported by Jay, will present sublime concerts of classical Indian Santoor, performing special evening ragas.
The meditative divine sounds of Santoor by Vinay Desai supported with the uplifting traditional beats on tabla by Jay Dabgar generate a uniquely immersive experience. The mind, heart and senses find delight, peace and inspiration as these two consummate and inspirational musicians and their classical instruments unite.
Vinay Desai is a disciple of Shiv Kumar Sharma, the legend of the Santoor (Womadelaide favourite) and he is one of the few maestros of the instrument outside of India. He carries the stylistic legacy of the great Shiv Kumar Sharma in his playing and has performed in India, Canada, USA, Bahamas, Argentina and Australia.
He is joined on tablas by Jay Dabgar, Australia ‘s foremost performer of Indian classical percussion, a celebrated tabla performer who has sponsored and accompanied many of the great musical artists from India. Jay is a leading exponent of classical Hindustani tablas as well as a dynamic experimenter of Indian fusion music.
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-= A Little More On The Evening Program =-
Vinay Desai began his classical musical training initially in vocal/harmonium/tabla from Shafiq Rahman in his teens. After completing his college in both Pre-pharmaceutical science as well as Pre-Law in Delaware, Vinay ventured to India to take up study of the unique Himalayan 100 stringed instrument, the Santoor. In 2011, with blessings and direct guidance of the renowned Santoor Master Padma Vibhushan Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, Vinay continued his studies wth Takahiro Arai. He later moved back to USA to learn from Kunal Gunjal. To expand his knowledge and skill in music, Vinay has learnt from many different Maestros.
Vinay has previously performed throughout India, Australia, Argentina, Canada, the Bahamas and the USA including Hawaii . He is known for his meditative and dynamic musical phrases. His devotion to the purity and the depth of Shivkumar Sharma’s style abundantly comes forth in performance.
Jay Dabgar, master Tabla-player, comes from a family of Tabla-makers in India and brings with him the legacy of the Benaras Gharaana style of Tabla-playing.
Having been systematically trained in the Benaras Gharaana style under the tutelage of late Pandit Nandan Mehta and Pandit Pooran Maharaj (both disciples of the Tabladoyen, late Pandit Kishen Maharaj), Jay brings over 25 years of experience as a professional musician. He has won several national accolades and has performed extensively with many renowned musicians like Grammy Award winner Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Grammy Award nominee Ustad Shujaat Khan, Pandit Sugato Naag, Smt Manju Mehta, and many more renowned musicians in India and abroad. Also recently, he had toured with India’s National Award winner, Pandit Purbayan Chatterjee.
Jay plays with many different artists from different backgrounds in Indian Classical, Semi Classical, Fusion and World music in Australia and has been teaching tabla and other percussion at his centre “Melbourne School of Indian Music”.
-= Evening Flow =-
5.00pm - Arrive and settle in, complimentary chai available
5.30pm - Event starts
7.00pm - Music concludes
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $35 + booking fee
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
* Limited Space so please book early to avoid disappointment.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia PL. Abbotsford Vic 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are currently unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 3th February, 4th May, 1st June, 6th July, 10th August, 5th October 2024
6.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Open Heart Kirtan at The Open Space
Singing has long been known as a means of expression for the soul. Kirtan provides a medium where singers and non singers can engage in this practice in a safe and supportive environment. Kirtan belongs to that area of practice know as Bhakti (devotional) yoga and is renowned for its capacity to open hearts and reach towards the higher self.
At Open Space we come together every month in a larger gathering to experience the divine energy of Kirtan.
-
The event is by donation and we provide a delicious plant based meal and non-dairy chai. All funds received are passed on as donations to support the Sansar Gyaan Pathshala School. Located in rural northern India, the school provides free education in an area where many children, especially girls, would not otherwise receive education. The school is fully operational and provides for over 300 students of primary school age together with scholarships to allow for further education.
All are welcome at Open Space Kirtan. Doors open at 6.00pm. Kirtan at 7.00pm. Please register through Eventbrite for organisational purposes.
+ Chai and plant based meal available (by donation).
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
+ Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times inside and outside the venue.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Friday 22nd December 2023
6.00pm - 8.45pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
A Celebration Of Gayatri
With Heidi Trigar & Andrew Mournehis
Gayatri is one of the most ancient and revered Goddesses of our Yoga Tradition. She illuminates our individual souls path so we can see the next steps we are called to take on our spiritual quest with more clarity.
The Gayatri mantra 🕉️ is both a meditation and Prayer to the Divine Light.
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Combining Movement and Dance as a moving meditation with the Stunning Vocals from Heidi’s Divine rendition of Gayatri, this will be an evening to remember.
Andrew has created a brand new “Illumination Dance of Gayatri” as part of the Dance of the Deities series, especially for this evening. It is slow, fluid and punctuated with the Beauty of Mantra 🕉️
The Evening will end with a SUBLIME Kirtan as the Sun gloriously sets with its Radiance.
This event will begin promptly at 6.15pm and close at 8.45 as the sun sets.
AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED !!
Limited spaces
So get in quick 💗🙏
-= Tickets =-
Cost: $108
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 6th May, 27th May, 30th June, 5th August, 7th October, 2nd December 2023
6.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Open Heart Kirtan at The Open Space
Singing has long been known as a means of expression for the soul. Kirtan provides a medium where singers and non singers can engage in this practice in a safe and supportive environment. Kirtan belongs to that area of practice know as Bhakti (devotional) yoga and is renowned for its capacity to open hearts and reach towards the higher self.
At Open Space we come together once a month in a larger gathering to experience the divine energy of Kirtan.
-
The event is by donation and we provide a delicious plant based meal and non-dairy chai. All funds received are passed on as donations to support the Sansar Gyaan Pathshala School. Located in rural northern India, the school provides free education in an area where many children, especially girls, would not otherwise receive education. The school is fully operational and provides for over 300 students of primary school age together with scholarships to allow for further education.
All are welcome at Open Space Kirtan. Doors open at 6.00pm. Kirtan at 7.00pm. Please register through Eventbrite for organisational purposes.
+ Chai and plant based meal available (by donation).
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
+ Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times inside and outside the venue.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Sunday 26th November 2023
7.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Be the Ocean - Tenzin Choegyal
A musical journey to the heart of Tibet evoking the vastness of space and the beauty of the Himalayan plateau.
One of the world's finest Tibetan musicians and Grammy nominee, Tenzin Choegyal is a master of traditional Tibetan instruments the lingbu (bamboo flute) and dranyen (3-stringed lute), but is best known for his extraordinary vocal ability.
A son of Tibetan nomads, Tenzin feels a particular connection to the music of the high Himalayan plateau and remains dedicated to preserving Tibet’s musical traditions. At the same time, he effortlessly embraces contemporary music styles, bringing Tibetan music and song firmly into the modern world.
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Tenzin takes audiences on a musical journey which transcends cultural boundaries. His obvious joyfulness is infectious and his message is uplifting.
Some examples of Tenzin's music:
Tibetan Nomadic Soul: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfmMOZ_TqyI
WNYC's Spinning On Air: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC5_5Luh8lU
Lotus Born: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nnGnf88WsY
-= Tickets =-
Cost: $35 + booking fee
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Sunday 24th September & 19th November 23
5.00pm - 7.00pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Mat Creedon & The Soma Ensemble
“10 piece Sound Bath experience” - SOLD OUT
The Open Space welcomes you to join us on a pilgrimage into sonic bliss with a powerful Sound Bath experience that incorporates large Tibetan Singing Bowls, Gongs, Tuning forks, Rain Sticks, Wind Chimes and Voice. In addition, your journey into bliss will be accompanied by 10 musicians on drums, bass clarinet, hand pan, violin, flute, and piano.
Curated by Mat Creedon & the inspired talent of The Soma Ensemble.
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Imagine a sound bath with 10 sound healers / musicians playing multiple instruments, with the intention to create a powerful healing experience.
Combining the love of spontaneous live performance, deep meditation & dreaming big.
Enter with us into a journey through the 7 Chakras where you are immersed in the healing energies of pure live acoustic vibrations.
Using sound waves at different frequencies to realign the cells in your body to their natural and optimal vibrational state.
Combining authentic seven large metal Tibetan Healing Bowls & Medicine Gongs, tuned specifically for corresponding chakra’s layered with complimentary acoustic instruments.
Each chakra has its own specific frequency, Mat orchestrates a combination of Instruments to help heal and rebalance. Drums for the root chakra, Woodwinds for the Sacral, Hand pan for the Solar Plexus, Strings for the heart, Flute & Voice for the Throat, Piano for the Third Eye, & Wind chimes / Tuning forks for the Crown.
While Mat resonates with each chakra in turn, tuning in with a matched Healing Bowl / Gong, the Soma Ensemble weaves a spontaneous layered live composition.
Each musician / Sound healer, finds a matching resonance through their instrument as a unique spontaneous composition. This talented collective of Sound Healers / musicians is a powerful healing experience not to be missed!
Mat writes “I have always wanted to put together a large ensemble, the energy of many talented musicians coming together is always an exciting experience. A little while ago a Sound Therapist said she would like to assemble a Sound Bath Orchestra and immediately I thought, yes that sounds like something that needs to be done!”
-= Mat Creedon =-
Artist, Sound Healer, Composer, Producer, Teacher
For the past 33 years Mat has provided a broad range of music & Healing services, both locally and abroad, as an Artist, Sound Therapist, Reiki Master, Teacher, Composer, Producer, multi-Instrumentalist, & Mixing / Mastering Engineer.
He has also been a student of many wonderful music/spiritual teachers including Lama Tendar.
Mat Creedon: Tibetan Singing Bowls, Gongs, Hand Pan & Tuning Forks
-= The Soma Ensemble =-
Portia Tang: Vocals
Michael Green: bass and soprano clarinets
Madi Frances: Piano
Denise Jenkins: Mrindangam drum
Winton Terry: Tibetan Singing Bowls, Didgeridoo and the Bougarabou
Katie Nova: Violin
Janaki: Guitar & Harp
Simon Hodgson: Percussion
Rick Corti: Native American Flute & Djembe
David Loochie: Cajon
Kuljit: Tabla
-= Evening Flow =-
4.30pm - Doors open
5.00pm - Studio space opens for settling in and intro
5.30 - 7.00pm - Sound bath
-= Bring with you =-
A cushion and blanket.
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $35 + booking fee ($45 at the door).
* Limited Spaces - please book early to ensure your place.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 18th November 2023
7.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Omnisutra Gnosis
The Thunder, Perfect Mind
Thunder Perfect Mind is a Gnostic Liturgy from the Nag Hammadi library composed some time before 300 BC. Gavin Shri Amneon sings here in Egyptian Coptic, and language that merged ancient Egyptian and Ancient Greek, still used in the Egyptian Coptic Christian Church to this day.
The song is Eve, the mother of all, speaking her Sophia – Wisdom, stating the nature of the human condition in all its dichotomies. It is one of the oldest liturgies that honours the divine feminine.
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This rendition of The Thunder, Perfect Mind features Gavin Shri Amneon on vocals, shruti box and percussion, Michael Green on soprano and bass clarinets, and Will Thompson on oud. The text is sung in the original Egyptian Coptic by Gavin, whilst Nicole Dawson provides a narration of the English translation. The original text dates from the early Christian era and its sentiment may have been influenced by eastern Wisdom traditions, whilst to form shows evidence of influence by Egyptian, Greek and Jewish forerunners. The text sets out in polarising dichotomous form a route to transcendence of duality and a release from suffering. Importantly, the voice of the poem is that of a female, and harks back to similar exhortations to wisdom in both the Egyptian and Jewish traditions. The Thunder, Perfect Mind is an eloquent challenge to dualistic visions of existence, and a stunning piece of early human poetics.
-= Some notes of the form and origins of The Thunder, Perfect Mind =-The Thunder Perfect Mind is a dichotomizing monologue spoken by the immanent savior, here represented as a female character and identifiable as 'afterthought,' a manifestation of wisdom. She is also identifiable as Eve, the mother of all, speaking her truth. In gnostic myth the role of afterthought - also known as 'life' (Zoe), the female instructing principle, and the holy spirit - is to assist both Adam and all humankind, in order to recollect the power stolen by Ialdabaoth, the false overlord God. She is immanent in all gnostics who have the holy spirit. Her mission to 'cry out' and summon members of the gnostic race and souls that respond will gain liberation from the material world and ascend to a place in the metaphysical universe where the speaker herself resides, and will not suffer reincarnation. In the Apocryphon of John, a heavenly Eve comes as a 'helper' to Adam, 'a luminous reflection (epinoia) who comes out of him, who is called "Life”.
This first person monologue invocation describes herself as one thing and then its opposite, showing that the true nature of humanity is not bound by ideals, but by a spectrum with opposing poles. In all mystical thought one transcends into the divine by freeing oneself from the dualistic dichotomization of the nature of reality.
The Nag Hammadi books (of which The Thunder is one) were written up around 330 A.D. and buried towards the end of the 4th century/the beginning of the 5th century. They were accidentally discovered in an earthenware jar by a group of farmers in upper Egypt in 1945, near the modern city of Nag Hammadi.
These codices comprise around 50 works written in Coptic, a blend of ancient Egyptian and ancient Greek language, which Gavin Shri Amneon sings in its original language. The Coptic language is a liturgical language preserved in the Egyptian Coptic church to this day. This performance preserves as much of the text as possible in the song, as many lines of the original codex were damaged and some lyrics were lost. But overall a majority of the song remains intact.
-= Tickets =-
Cost: $35 + booking fee
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 21st October 2023
7.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Kavisha Mazzella & Matthew Arnold
Songs Of Transformation
Kavisha Mazzella and Matthew Arnold have been playing music together since 1993. They have played festivals around the country from Cathedrals to house concerts in small loungerooms. Everywhere they play their music evokes transformative experiences for their audiences.
Their music contains echoes of Gypsy, Fado, Mediterranean and Celtic strands as well as paying respects to traditional Italian Folk Music.
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Kavisha’s songs contain Social Justice themes, the spiritual and humour and with Matthews virtuosic accompaniment takes the audience on a great boundary riding journey.
Matthew has played with many musicians around Melbourne and is highly respected as a sensitive accompanist. Kavisha is an ARIA award winning songwriter with a beautiful voice. She has released eight albums and received an Australia Day honour for her services to music and community.
Together they create the Sublime Songs of Transformation.
-= Tickets =-
Cost: $35 + booking fee
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Sunday 8th October 2023
6.00pm - 7.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Sound Shower with Avishai
Come bathe in pure sounds that will take you on a deeply transformational journey
The Soundshower combines chimes, tibetan bowls, flutes and vocal harmonics. During a session you will be invited to lie down and immerse in vibrations created by these special instruments. Throughout the “Shower” different instruments are carried around the room and sometimes placed physically on the body. Flutes and voice are used to create a magical musical journey and overtones charge the brain and energize the body.
Exposure to these healing frequencies enhances a physical, mental and emotional calibration to the human body and energy field. Pure frequencies shift and release stagnant energy and tension accumulated in the body. The Soundshower re-aligns and harmonizes body/mind and is a very relaxing and refreshing experience. It releases stress and anxiety increasing focus clarity and insight.
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-= Tickets =-
Cost: $49
-= About Avishai Barnatan =-
Is a Multi instrumentalist, producer and Sound therapist. Since 1990 he has been exploring the nature of sound and its therapeutic qualities as a tool for physical & emotional transformation and healing. Inspired by modern scientific research as well as ancient esoteric and mystic knowledge, he has developed his own approach and style of soundhealing . He facilitates group and private sessions for the general public as well as with people of diverse conditions such as various addictions, anxiety and stress-related symptoms, applying different techniques of vibrational therapy. These sessions are a deeply nourishing experience.
Avishai has facilitated “Soundshowers” in festivals such as Wanderlust, Byron Spirit festival, Evolve Yoga fest, Jerusalem Sacred Music Festival and Uplift festival. He regularly holds sessions at venues around Australia.
"Avishai’s Soundshower represents a powerful prescription for calming brain activity, lowering blood pressure, and reducing breathing and heart rates, physiologic states that help reverse the damaging effects of today’s world of chronic stress."
- Bruce Lipton
"Avishai Barnatan's music uplifts the consciousness of anyone who listens to it. I first met Avishai in Australia in 2013, where I heard him play his music live. After hearing it, I was hooked! I have recommended Avishai's music to many people seeking ways to access deeper levels of consciousness, as it is my hope that by sharing such music, we can change the world."
- Anita Moorjani - New York Times bestselling author of "Dying To Be Me"
Sample of the sound shower: https://youtu.be/AIXVEE5XSrU
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 26 Aug 2023
6.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
An Offering to Mother Earth
– a ritual of celebration and gratitude -
Are you looking to deepen your connection with Mother Earth & with Elements, Water, Air, Fire, Spirit & Earth?
Come and join Donna and Frankie for a heartfelt tribute to Mother Earth.
-= Cacao Ceremony, Despacho Offering, Shamanic Soul Meditation & Sound Journey =-
In this time, during the month of August, it’s known as a month-long celebration for Mother Earth. Known as the “Offering to Earth”, this offering is a form of mandala, and is made with gratitude for the gifts we have received and the seeding of the prayers for the new cycle to come. Also, for Mother Earth to rest and rejuvenate, a time where all farming stops and the soil is left to rest and renew.
Donna will open and close our time together as we move around the Andean Cross - the Medicine Wheel, in sacred ceremony with the medicine of Mama Cacao and a Pachamama despacho offering.
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-= Cacao Ceremony =-
Cacao ceremonies have been around for thousands of years, originating all the way back to Mayan and Aztec traditions in Central and South America. Used for spiritual, medicinal, and ceremonial purposes for inner awakening and creative guidance.
Cacao is known for gently balancing both feminine and masculine energies. The feminine energies allow you to receive inspirations and the Masculine energies allow you to act on it.
The medicine of Cacao invites us to open our hearts and explore our inner world for healing, integration, and creativity, to experience new insights, and to bring more joy gratitude into our life.
Mama Cacao reminds us of all the infinite beauty that dwells within.
-= Despacho Offering =-
Despacho describes the Andean ceremonial practice of making offerings to the Mountains (Apus), Mother Earth (Pachamama), and other spirits of nature in reciprocity (divine exchange), reverence and giving thanks.
A despacho is an act of love and celebration - a way of giving something back in return for everything we have received, and it reminds us of the connections we share with all beings, spirts, elements and sacred places.
During our despacho offering, Donna will guide us through the journey of the despacho with its symbolic significance: elements, weather, clouds around mountains, rainbows, the four directions, lakes, rivers, fruits of our labours, earth, stars, seeds, grains, beans, leaves, nuts, sweet things, and flowers. Every item represents a part of the Andean cosmology which effects the totality of energy throughout the universe.
The offering is gifted to Pachamama, our Apus (mountains), our Allies, Guardians and Guides in the spirit of Ayni – reciprocity, as we give, so we receive.
-= Soul Journey =-
Frankie will take you on a guided Shamanic Soul Journey, (which is similar to a guided meditation). The journey will take us through the elements, with a focus on Mother Earth Pachamama it will weave in celebration, gratitude, and connection with our Mother Earth.
Frankie will also be using his Tibetan Bowls & other sounds in a beautiful healing sound Journey.
-= About the facilitators =-
Donna - @yoga_with_donna
Donna is a Cacao Ceremonialist and Yoga Teacher, who has been teaching yoga for over 10 years. Her specialties are:
• Tripsichore Vinyasa Yoga: an evenly metered flow of movement, breath and thought. The synchronizing of breath with yoga movement results in an uninfected state of being
• Restorative Yoga: uses props to support the body in positions of comfort and ease to facilitate deep relaxation and health.
Frankie is a multi-certified practitioner with specialties in:
• Breathwork, Hypnotherapist, Time-Line Therapist
• Reiki Grand Master
• Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner
• Meditation & Soul Journey Facilitator & Guide
• Founder of BreathworkMeditations.org
And has completed both Yoga & Qi Gong 200hr Trainings.
You can reach Frankie at: www.ShamanicSoul.Space
-= Evening Flow =-
6:00pm - Arrive and settle in
6:30pm - Event starts
8:30pm - Event concludes
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $44 + booking fee
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
* Limited Space so please book early to avoid disappointment.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Cancellations are up to the discretion of the presenter. No refunds will be available with less than 48hours notice. In the case of cancellation due to emergencies we will do our best to supplement you with attendance at another Open Space event.
Saturday 19th August 2023
7.00pm - 8.30pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Alwan - Music Of The Middle East
Please join us for a memorable evening with Alwan, a sublime trio playing Turkish, Arabic, Persian and Sephardic music.
In 2022 Alwan orchestrated a memorable evening of Turkish, Arabic, Persian and Sephardic music at Open Space. Alwan are Yuval Ashkar (oud, vocals, percussion), Phil Carroll (accordion, ney flute, duduk) and Matt Stonehouse (percussion). They have played together in concert venues and at festivals across Australia for the past fifteen years. With beautiful vocals, haunting instrumentals and fiery drum solos, Alwan delighted our audience in 2022 with virtuoso performances all round and are back by popular demand.
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In 2022 Alwan orchestrated a memorable evening of Turkish, Arabic, Persian and Sephardic music at Open Space. Alwan are Yuval Ashkar (oud, vocals, percussion), Phil Carroll (accordion, ney flute, duduk) and Matt Stonehouse (percussion). They have played together in concert venues and at festivals across Australia for the past fifteen years. With beautiful vocals, haunting instrumentals and fiery drum solos, Alwan delighted our audience in 2022 with virtuoso performances all round and are back by popular demand.
Alwan brings together a trio of master musicians to create a unique blend of middle eastern/world music. Yuval Ashkar undertook his formative training under oud master Yaid Dalal, before moving to Australia. Phil Carroll lived in Turkey where he studied ney and worked as a musician in weddings, cafes and Sufi ceremonies. He was leader of the Melbourne middle-eastern band Yalla! for 10 years. Matt Stonehouse (The Reefers, Unified Gecko, Fingers of Fury) has worked extensively throughout Melbourne to great acclaim in a variety of percussive styles. He studied drumming in Turkey and Iran, and also crafts his own drums.
Alwan have presented their breath-taking blend of middle-eastern/world music at multiple festivals across Australia, supported the Mercan Dede ensemble at the Victorian Arts Centre, and their music featured on the soundtrack of the feature film 'Ali's Wedding'.
-= Evening Flow =-
6:30pm - Enjoy a complimentary chai and biscuits
7pm - Event starts
8:30pm - Music concludes
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $30 + booking fee
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
* Limited Space so please book early to avoid disappointment.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
* Please take a moment to select your event thoughtfully, as we are currently unable to provide refunds. However, all tickets are transferable to the person(s) of your choice. The only time we can make an exception to our no-refund policy is if the event is sold out and we're able to help find a new home for your tickets. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Saturday 6th August 2023
5.30pm - 8.00pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Kirtan with the Chant Cartel
Chant Cartel return to play an intimate 2 hour kirtan set
After a 3 year hiatus Melbourne’s beloved Chant Cartel return to play an intimate 2 hour kirtan set, with our new friends at The Open Space.
The Chant Cartel will present an original line-up of singers and professional musicians to expand and explore the multi dimensional practice of kirtan, weaving together music and mantra.
The Chant Cartel are best known for their much loved event, ’Chant and Chai’, which culminated in 10 years of kirtan events every month, up until Melbourne’s lockdowns.
We are pleased to be returning and look forward to singing with you all soon!
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Enjoy chai and reconnect with The Chant Cartel and friends before immersing yourself in 2 hours of blissful chants and divine music with a warm-hearted community.
All are welcome at the Open Space. Please register for catering and organisational purposes.
+ You can donate online through Eventbrite or our website: www.theopenspace.com.au/donate
+ Chai available.
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
+ Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times inside and outside the venue.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067
Paid parking is available in the public car park at Acacia Place, and across Victoria Street in Victoria Gardens shopping complex. Free parking in Harrison court and surrounds. We are on the lower ground level of Acacia Place.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps leading down to the river.
Saturday 1st July 2023
6.30pm - 8.00pm
@ The Open Space
11 Acacia Pl, Abbotsford VIC 3067 (map)
Indian Classical Music Concert
A unique concert event featuring: Sangeet Mishra on Sarangi, accompanied by Vinod Prasanna on Bansu and Pranav Ramji on Tabla.
The Open Space has been truly blessed with visiting Indian musicians this year. After a sold out performance by Vinay Desai earlier this year we are delighted to welcome Sangeet Mishra and that most divine of Indian instruments, the Sarangi. Accompanying Sangeet will be Vinod Prasanna on Bansuri returning to The Open Space, and we are also pleased to welcome Pranav Ramji on tabla.
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The evening will comprise a performance of Indian Classical Music. All three of our visiting musicians have long generational histories in this genre, preserving the subtleties and nuances of the tradition whilst developing their own interpretations through contemporary musical thought.
-= A Little More On The Evening Program =-
Sangeet Mishra was born into the legendary Mishra family, of the renowned Banaras Gharana (school of music), North India. Sangeet is an 8th generation sarangi player. His first Guru was his paternal grandfather, the late maestro, Pt. Narayan Das Mishra and under his guidance Sangeet required a remarkable proficiency in vocals. He has laboured to keep alive the music and techniques of the great elders past and present by acquiring both the tantakri and gayaki style of playing the sarangi. Rooted firmly in the ancient traditions and techniques of shastriya sangeet (classical music) Sangeet has created a distinctive individuality to his playing. Currently based in Mumbai Sangeet tours extensively through India and across the globe entrancing audiences with his virtuoso performances.
Vinod Prasanna will bring his mastery of Indian classical Bansuri to this unique concert. Hailing from Varanasi and born into one of India’s great flute-playing families, Vinod’s late grandfather, Pandit Vishnu Prasanna, introduced him to the art of bansuri playing. His uncle, Pandit Rajendra Prasanna also taught him and further inspired his playing. Vinod has performed and toured extensively throughout his homeland and overseas, including France, Japan, Germany and now, Australia. In 2006, Vinod won the prestigious Sahara All India Flute Recital Competition.
Residing in Australia since 2008, Vinod is a performing and recording artist, teacher, craftsman and ambassador of the Bansuri.
Pranav Ramji (Tabla) started playing the Tabla at the age of 8, with his initial training and advancement under the watchful eye of Ustad Gulfam Sabri and Ustad Sarwar Sabri. He is currently learning the intricacies of the Punjab Gharana of Tabla playing from Pt. Aditya Kalyanpur, a student of Ustad Alla Rakha and Ustad Zakir Hussain. Pranav Is an Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) empanelled Tabla player and has travelled across India, Europe and Australia performing solo Tabla recitals, accompanying senior musicians in their travels and taking workshops to promote Hindustani Classical Music.
-= Evening Flow =-
6.00pm - Arrive and settle in, complimentary chai available
6.30pm - Event starts
8.30pm - Music concludes
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $35 + booking fee
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
* Limited Space so please book early to avoid disappointment.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia PL. Abbotsford Vic 3067
Paid parking in buildlng complex car park (enter from Acacia Place), or parking in Victoria Gardens shopping precinct across Victoria Street.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps towards the river.
*Cancellations are up to the discretion of the presenter. No refunds will be available with less than 48hours notice. In the case of cancellation due to emergencies we will do our best to supplement you with attendance at another Open Space event.
Sarita McHarg Ensemble
Enjoy a night of Indian devotional music
Sarita and her five piece ensemble mesmerised us with Indian devotional bhajans and classical ragas in 2022 and promises to repeat her divine magic at The Open Space in 2023.
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Sarita comes from a family of professional musicians in India and carries on these traditions whilst bringing western instruments and musical ornamentation into the mix. Lovers of Indian music will delight in this event, and others who may just wish to exercise their curiosity will be pleasantly surprised at the uplifting quality of truly devotional music.
-= Evening Flow =-
6.30pm - Arrive and settle in, complimentary chai available
7pm - Event starts
9.00pm - Music concludes
-= Tickets =-
Tickets: $30 + booking fee
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
* Limited Space so please book early to avoid disappointment.
-= Location =-
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia PL. Abbotsford Vic 3067
Paid parking under car park, or free parking across main road.
*Cancellations are up to the discretion of the presenter. No refunds will be available with less than 48hours notice. In the case of cancellation due to emergencies we will do our best to supplement you with attendance at another Open Space event.
Vedic Vibe
Join us for a magical night of sacred music with Vedic Vibe.
This Vedic Vibe ensemble will take you on an unusual journey from the cherry blossom trees of Japan to the souks of the Middle East via India, Europe and lands far beyond.
Their music will fill your heart and nourish your soul with the sounds of the Persian oud, Japanese koto, Indian merdang drum and harmonium, and the violin and flute.
Together the foursome draw on sacred Sanskrit texts, the teachings of mystics and also Western sounds with an Eastern edge.
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Vedic Vibe entranced our audience with their sublime melodies in 2022 and are back by popular demand for a return performance - not to be missed.
Vedic Vibe members are:
Phil Gunter
Philip Gunter has a masters in ethnomusicology from Monash University and did post-graduate study at the VCA. Phil performs in various ensembles including with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra musicians at the Melbourne Recital Centre, and at most of the major Australian festivals. Phil has done further training with master musicians in New York, New Mexico, Turkey, Egypt, India and Australia.
“Singing and playing music feed my soul and are essential for my wellbeing,” Phil says. Instruments: Oud, Merdang, Guitar
Brandon Lee
Brandon Lee is a Japanese koto (zither) performer based in Melbourne. Originally from Malaysia, he started the koto while attending university in Melbourne. He eventually moved to Japan and was a live-in apprentice for koto virtuoso Kazue Sawai in Tokyo. In 2011, he officially obtained his teaching and performance licence from the Sawai Koto School. In 2014, he graduated with a masters in music from Monash University.
“Being trained in classical Japanese music, it’s such a joy to fuse very different musical styles together,’’ he says.
Amla Periakarpan
With a masters in music from Melbourne University, Amla Periakarpan has performed across Australia, New Zealand and Chile. She recently toured with Adam Hills in his show Shoes Half Full and has plunged herself into playing different genres of music. Amla is passionate about developing as a musician and is building a name for herself as a loop solo artist (flute, loop, violin and voice).
Harb Gill
Harb Gill has played the harmonium for nearly 30 years in leading devotional chants in several countries, for as many as 2500 chanters. She has managed both music ensembles and teams of journalists, and has done harmonium teacher training in New York and further training in India. Harb has directed several shows including the sold-out One En-Chanted Evening at the Melbourne Fringe Festival and also at other festivals.
“I have been chanting and singing all my life – it is as close to me as my mother tongue, Punjabi,” she says.
-= Evening Flow =-
6.30pm - Arrive and settle in
7.00pm - Event starts
8:30pm - Music concludes
-= Tickets and location =-
Tickets: $30 + booking fee
* Concession prices available, contact the event organiser for more details: admin@theopenspace.com.au
+ Free Chai refreshment included with your ticket.
+ Provided seating is mostly on floor cushions (some chairs available for those with difficulty sitting on the floor).
* Limited Space so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Held @ The Open Space
11 Acacia PL. Abbotsford Vic 3067
Paid parking under car park, or park across main road in Victoria Gardens shopping complex.
Disabled access: If you park within the paid parking station off Acacia Place you will be on the same level as our studio. If you enter from Victoria Street level, a lift is available at the top of the first set of steps towards the river.
*Cancellations are up to the discretion of the presenter. No refunds will be available with less than 48hours notice. In the case of cancellation due to emergencies we will do our best to supplement you with attendance at another Open Space event.