1. Themes
  2. A to Z

Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Erected in the Kings Domain by the Sidney Myer Charity Trust with the support of the Melbourne City Council, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl was opened on 12 February 1959. At the opening concert, attended by the Governor of Victoria, Sir Dallas Brooks, and R.G. Menzies, Prime Minister of Australia, the Victorian and Sydney symphony orchestras were conducted by Alfred Wallenstein. Myer had made provision during his lifetime for free outdoor orchestral concerts, but in the absence of a suitable shell, Melbourne's unpredictable weather prevented these from being regular events. Constructed as a tribute to Sidney Myer, the 'Bowl', inspired by America's Hollywood Bowl, cost £200 000 and was completed in eleven months. Refurbished in 2003, it continues to provide a venue for Melbourne's annual Carols by Candlelight and other outdoor performances.

Stella M. Barber