New Horizons artist – Ashling O ’ Farrell + Virago with Flora Carbo (USA/Aus)

New Horizons

Ashling O’Farrell Quartet

Ashling O’Farrell – trombone/vocals
Saffi Campbell Walker – piano
Clio Grieg – bass
Harry Lentell – drums

The Ashling O’Farrell Quartet is an ensemble led by trombonist and vocalist Ashling O’Farrell. At just 21 years old, Ashling shares light and joy through her music, aiming to radiate hope with her jazz-influenced compositions.

Inspired by artists such as Rita Payés, Kristin Berardi, Andrea Keller, and Stevie Wonder, the Ashling O’Farrell Quartet will bring a smile to your face – and they can’t wait to share their music with you.

Virago with Flora Carbo (USA / AUS)

Flora Carbo (AUS) – saxophones & composition
Sofia Carbonara (AUS/USA) – vibraphone
Wesley Hornpetrie (USA) – cello
BethAnne Kunert (USA) – saxophones
Magnolia Rohrer (USA) – violin

Melbourne’s own saxophonist, improviser, composer, and music leader Flora Carbo teams up with Michigan-based ensemble Virago (Sofia Carbonara – vibraphone, BethAnne Kunert – saxophones, Magnolia Rohrer – violin, Wesley Hornpetrie – cello) for a night of original creative music, featuring a premiere by Carbo developed for and with the ensemble.

This long-awaited collaboration celebrates the international creative music community — built on friendship, deep listening, and a passion for experimental forms. Flora and Virago’s project is supported by Bundanon Arts Centre, Made Now Music, the Melbourne Women’s International Jazz Festival, Creative Victoria, and Creative Australia.

Flora Carbo is a saxophonist, composer, and music leader from Naarm (Melbourne, Australia). Her unique practice creates novel musical environments that connect people through improvisation, composition, and conceptual works, led by her distinct creative vision.

Set 1: Ashling O’Farrell Quartet

Set 2: Virago + Flora Carbo

Co-presented with the Melbourne Jazz Co-op and the University of Melbourne MCM