Elysian Blues II

What happens when an ancient guzheng collides with a jazz pianist, tumbles over a rocking percussionist, and lands in Melbourne’s Chinese Museum? Elysian Blues II — bold, groovy, and gloriously unpredictable.

This electrifying return season pairs the 21-string guzheng — an ancient Chinese zither with a flowing, harp-like sound — with jazz piano and percussion in a daring cross-cultural trio. Guzheng artist QiQi takes centre stage with not one, but two guzhengs, switching between them mid-song to reimagine the instrument from tranquil tradition to riotous, rhythm-driven revelation.

After a sold-out debut and a 2024 Melbourne Fringe Award nomination, Elysian Blues returns recharged, reimagined, and relocated to the iconic Chinese Museum in the heart of Chinatown. Led by QiQi and co-composed with jazz pianist Darby Lee, the trio features fiery percussionist Alexander Meagher in a set that brims with humour, wild improvisation, and soul-stirring storytelling.

Expect a bold original score where guzheng grooves like a jazz instrument, keys fly in virtuosic flurries, and drums swing and snap beneath it all. With its unpretentious charm, intimate energy, and playful banter, Elysian Blues II is a joyous invitation to break all the “rules” of music and discover something truly unique.

📅 Sunday 12 October 2025
⏰ 2:30pm & 6:30pm (75 mins)
📍 Chinese Museum – First Floor Performance Space, 22 Cohen Place, Melbourne
🎟️ Tickets: Full $27 / Concession $21