Singles drinks/afternoon chat before Classical Music at Hamer Hall + Dine

Are you tired of the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of speed dating? Do you crave a more relaxed and meaningful way to meet new people? We have the perfect solution for you! Join us for a unique singles event in Melbourne that combines the elegance of a classical concert with the warmth of a shared dinner.
There are optional choices for this special event depending on your time.

Date: 18/08/2024 Sunday Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Melbourne CBD (weather dependent) Abory Bar, Hamer Hall, Arts Centre, Restaurant

1. Meet and Greet:
   The evening will begin with a casual meet and greet session. This is your chance to introduce yourself and get to know other attendees in a relaxed setting. No rush, no pressure—just genuine conversations.
   
2. Classical Concert: (ticket included)
   Enjoy a mesmerizing classical concert featuring some of Melbourne's finest musicians. Let the beautiful melodies set the tone for an enchanting evening. Whether you're a classical music aficionado or a curious newcomer, this concert promises to be a delightful experience.
   Match and enjoy the concert - very private pairing.
   Based on The Arabian Nights, this story begins with Scheherazade’s marriage to Sultan Schakhriar (known for having executed all of his previous wives, the day after each wedding).
   Story
   Being the executioner’s daughter and in an attempt to save her own life, Scheherazade begins telling the Sultan extended fairy tales – each one with a climactic cliff-hanger. Desperate to hear the conclusion, the Sultan permits her to live for just one more day. The next evening, she concludes the story but then immediately begins another, even more fantastical than the last! For 1001 nights this continues, until the Sultan realises that he cannot live without her. In Rimsky-Korsakoff’s telling of this story, the concertmaster takes on the role of Scheherazade and the trombones depict the Sultan.
   The University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will open the concert with the Victorian Premiere of Miriama Young’s Kinds of Blue. Written with Scheherazade in mind, this work draws inspiration from: four of Mark Rothko’s blue-centric works; Miles Davis’s Kind of Blue and Sketches of Spain and filmmaker, Derek Jarman’s Chroma. The piece is written from a synaesthetic perspective and is structurally based on the tension between the deep blue of E major and light sky blue of F# minor, exploring the duality of these two colours, as expressed in the works of Rimsky-Korsakov (who was a synesthete – seeing specific colours when hearing music).
   Just before the interval the ensemble will be fusing jazz and classical music with the Cyber Bird Concerto, written in 1994 by Japanese composer Takashi Yoshimatsu. This work is strictly a triple concerto and places a jazz trio of saxophone, piano and percussion at the front of the stage. In this performance, Melbourne Conservatorium 2022 Concerto/Aria Competition winner Justinn Lu will be the saxophone soloist.
   
3. Dinner:
   After the concert, we will head to a nearby restaurant for a gathering dinner. Share a meal with your new acquaintances and continue your conversations in a cozy and intimate setting. The dinner will feature a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.
   Restaurant list:
   Jarrah Restaurant
   https://www.quaywestsuitesmelbourne.com.au/dining/jarrah-restaurant
   
4. Exploring Melbourne:
   Depending on the group's interest, we may take a leisurely stroll through Melbourne's vibrant streets, visit a local café for dessert, or explore a nearby attraction. This is a great opportunity to see what Melbourne has to offer and create lasting memories with new friends.
   

• Quality Time: Unlike speed dating, this event allows you ample time to connect with others. You won't be rushed through conversations, giving you the chance to form genuine connections.
• Shared Interests: The combination of a classical concert and dinner ensures that attendees share a common interest in culture and dining in Southbank, providing a solid foundation for meaningful conversations.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The event is designed to be stress-free and enjoyable. You can engage with others at your own pace, making it easier to be yourself and have fun.
• Community Engagement: This event is not just about meeting potential partners; it's also about enjoying the cultural richness of Melbourne and supporting local artists and businesses.
  

• Registration: Sign up to secure your spot. Spaces are limited to ensure a comfortable and intimate experience, so don't wait too long to register!
• Cost: The event fee covers the concert ticket, dinner, and any additional activities. Detailed pricing information is available on the registration page.
• Dress Code: Smart casual attire is recommended. Dress comfortably and confidently to enjoy the evening to the fullest.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Arbory Bar & Eatery, 1 Flinders Walk, Melbourne, Australia