About the Lieder Society of Victoria

In 1975, inspired by a visit to Australia of the famous bass-baritone Hans Hotter, Melbourne based singer and teacher Loris Synan decided to investigate whether a State Society could be formed to keep the art of lieder and art song performance before the public. The idea was taken up by many of Melbourne’s finest musicians and the Lieder Society was born.

Loris became President and an active Committee was elected that included, as its first Secretary, her late husband Alan McArthur. Together their tireless work ensured the Society’s early success and growth.

The Bicentenary Schubert Festival – a series of thirty concerts spanning the years 1993 to 1997, during which the entire Schubert song repertoire was presented in roughly chronological order – was a mammoth project undertaken by the Society. Christopher Barling’s vision and guidance of the project, together with his meticulous research, resulted in a Schubert Festival which has not been equalled anywhere in the world.

The National Liederfest is Australia’s most prestigious German art song competition. It provides encouragement for aspiring concert performers through a series of recitals where singers and pianists compete for valuable prizes.

Recitals and concerts, which include singers and pianists from our membership, aim to stimulate awareness of the art song amongst the wider community.

Informal social occasions, seminars and student master classes are also part of our year’s activities.

Membership of the Lieder Society is open to all who enjoy the vocal chamber music repertoire and wish to support its continued performance.