Speeches
Thursday, 10 September 2026
Music Evening at Government House
Rod and I warmly welcome you to Government House for a music evening to celebrate the arrival of our new 1978 Kawai piano.
We hope that, as per the invitation, you have prepared a party piece for this evening, and very much look forward to hearing them.
Music has long found a natural home at Government House, marking significant occasions and creating moments of joy, connection and celebration for all who pass through our doors.
Adelaide's standing as a UNESCO Creative City of Music is a fitting reminder of how deeply music is woven into the character of our state.
As Governor, I am delighted to celebrate the arrival of a new piano, made possible through cooperation with Recitals Australia.
I also want to acknowledge Mrs Lyn Schodde, the original owner of the piano.
I well remember mentioning, at the State Opera Golden Jubilee reception earlier this year, that we were still on the hunt for a piano
worthy of this house, and Recitals Australia generously answered the call.
We promised then that we would show new piano a good time and I am pleased that we can finally keep that promise.
I reflect with affection, and a touch of humour, on the old 1897 Brinsmead and Sons, a piano that developed, over more than a century of service, a number of peculiarities for musicians to negotiate.
That piano has since found a fitting new home at Carrick Hill, continuing a shared relationship between Carrick Hill and Government House that stretches back many years.
I thank the many musicians who have performed at Government House during my term, whose skill, generosity and professionalism have brought such distinction to official occasions.
Their artistry has demonstrated South Australia's musical talent to audiences here at home, interstate and internationally.
I thank South Australia's wider music community, including the Elder Conservatorium of Music, Recitals Australia, State Opera South Australia and Adelaide Youth Orchestras for their contribution to musical excellence in our state.
I thank, too, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian String Quartet, Musica Viva Australia and the many other artists and organisations who enrich South Australia’s cultural life.
I have been heartened, throughout my term, by the deep sense of generosity that runs through this community, freely offered whenever Government House has called upon it.
Over these years, hosting dozens of receptions in this ballroom, I have witnessed time and again the vital role music plays in bringing people together.
As my term as Governor draws towards its close, I thank you most sincerely for your support, and for the many ways in which you have filled this house with music.
I wish you well for the future, as you continue building South Australia's proud reputation for musical excellence.
May the music of South Australia's artists continue to resonate, well beyond these walls and long after this evening's applause has faded.