Pinchgut Opera is a classical music ensemble based in Sydney, Australia. The ensemble was founded in 2002 by Antony Walker, Erin Helyard, and Anna McDonald. The group specializes in performing rarely heard operas from the Baroque and Classical periods, as well as contemporary works. Antony Walker, the artistic director and conductor of Pinchgut Opera, is a renowned conductor who has worked with many of the world's leading orchestras and opera companies. Erin Helyard, the ensemble's co-founder and artistic director, is a harpsichordist and conductor who has performed with many of the world's leading early music ensembles. Anna McDonald, the ensemble's co-founder and executive director, is a violinist and musicologist who has worked with many of Australia's leading orchestras and ensembles. Pinchgut Opera's first performance was in 2002, when the ensemble performed Handel's oratorio "Athalia" at the City Recital Hall in Sydney. The performance was a critical and commercial success, and established Pinchgut Opera as a major force in the Australian classical music scene. Since then, Pinchgut Opera has performed many other rarely heard operas, including works by Vivaldi, Gluck, and Mozart. The ensemble has also commissioned and premiered several new works, including "The Harp in the South" by composer Elena Kats-Chernin and librettist Pierce Wilcox. Pinchgut Opera has received many awards and accolades for its performances, including several Helpmann Awards, which are the highest honor in Australian performing arts. In 2016, the ensemble won the Helpmann Award for Best Opera for its production of Monteverdi's "The Coronation of Poppea." One of Pinchgut Opera's most notable performances was its 2012 production of Handel's "Radamisto," which was the first Australian production of the opera in over 30 years. The production was praised for its innovative staging and outstanding performances, and was a critical and commercial success. Pinchgut Opera has also performed internationally, including at the Edinburgh International Festival and the Royal Opera House in London. The ensemble has collaborated with many of the world's leading musicians and singers, including mezzo-soprano Vivica Genaux and countertenor David Hansen. In addition to its performances, Pinchgut Opera is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble offers workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, and has established a program to provide free tickets to its performances for disadvantaged and marginalized communities. Overall, Pinchgut Opera is a unique and innovative ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the Australian classical music scene. With its commitment to performing rarely heard operas and its dedication to education and outreach, Pinchgut Opera is sure to continue to be a major force in the world of classical music for many years to come.

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