Improvised Encounters brings together two distinct approaches to real-time music-making, united by deep listening, trust, and shared risk.

Acclaimed pianist Chris Abrahams and 2026 Freedman Fellow & saxophonist Sam Gill return to the intimacy of the acoustic duo, shaping an improvised set of shimmering resonance, interlocking cycles and immersive lyricism. The evening expands with Fate Maps, an improvising string ensemble convened by double bassist Clayton Thomas, where cello, viola and bass map sound collectively in the moment. Together, these works invite audiences into music that unfolds through encounter — responsive, porous, and alive.

Chris Abrahams – piano
Sam Gill – alto, soprano & sopranino saxophones

Acclaimed pianist Chris Abrahams (The Necks) and 2025 Freedman Jazz Fellow saxophonist Sam Gill (Microfiche) join forces for their fourth duo meeting. The pair first collaborated in 2022, with Chris appearing as a guest artist with the electro-acoustic group Microfiche during their celebrated residency at 107 Projects. Stripping back to the acoustic duo format, the pair will present an improvised set that explores shimmering resonances, interlocking cycles and immersive lyricism.

Fate Maps

Clayton Thomas – double bass
Freya Schack-Arnott – cello
Phillippa Murphy-Haste – viola

Fate Maps is an improvising string ensemble convened by Sydney double bassist Clayton Thomas. The ensemble combines string players from various backgrounds in improvised and classical music to produce unique real time music.

Set times:
7:30 doors,
8:00 set 1,
9:00 set 2

As part of Birds of a Feather, March: A gathering of artists refusing to behave as expected, presenting bold, intimate, and curious work across theatre, dance, performance, musiking, and film. Come for a moment. Stay for a while. Or dive in headfirst—if it feels slightly outside your comfort zone, you’re exactly where you need to be.