A subterranean down-under delight


On Sunday 29 September adventurous people from the gold coast and Northern Rivers ventured out to a disused tunnel in Nerang for what was a subterranean delight.  With support from the Ernest Junction Tunnel Friends this creative concert was planned.
Dynasty 8, a chamber choir from the Northern Rivers put on an hour long sound delight performance.  With 8 members directed by Elizabeth Swain, and joined by Tobias Cole (internationally acclaimed counter tenor from Canberra) as well as David Bennett and his earth gongs, the performance ranged from a 12th Century piece… meandered through centuries past to modern day, including pieces from Monteverdi to compositions from Paul Smith. .  A feature of Dynasty 8 performances is that they encourage people not to clap between songs so as not to break the mood of the ‘sound bath’, allowing it to extend over the hour long performance

Lea Smouha commented afterwards.. This afternoon was ethereal   thank you so much for this concert, I’ve never experienced anything like it 

Dynasty 8 is planning a Christmas experience out of the box as well!  Watch this space!

Dynasty 8 Wows Byron Writers Festival

Dynasty 8 was thrilled to be asked to perform on the Saturday evening of the Byron Writers Festival 2019. A perfect ending to a brain filled day, to have some soothing music. We performed in the Belongil Room to a large crowd, singing restful melodic and uplifting pieces. We even were asked to do two encores . Happy days!

Mullum Music Festival 2018

We’re super-excited to announce that we are performing at this year’s Mullum Music Festival!

We plan to perform two sets, the first is our Songs of Love, Loss LUST and Longing – a collection of madrigals and other pieces showcasing the bawdier side of secular music.

The second is our REST programme, featuring transcendent pieces to broaden the mind and nourish the soul.

You will be free to move around quietly during the performance, sit or lie down and close your eyes, stretch and then be still, letting the sounds wash over and through you. Blankets, mats and pillows will be provided, or feel free to bring your favourite pillow. You can unwind, take a break, luxuriate in a beautiful space as you listen to some beautiful ancient and modern choral music, sung by local chamber choir Dynasty8.

‘These concerts are a bit of an experiment,’ explained Liz Swain. ‘We wanted to bring this gorgeous music to a wider audience, who might enjoy listening to the purity of the voice in more comfortable circumstances than in a church. This music is designed for deep meditation, and we hope that people find some rest and peace whilst listening.’

More a meditation than a concert, the music includes compositions by William Byrd, Ola Gjeilo, Morton Lauridsen and two exquisite pieces by Estonian Composer Arvo Pärt.