Queensland Conservatorium jazz student Mario Conde is travelling to remote corners of the state as part of the annual Culture Train line-up.
The musical roadshow is part of Queensland Multicultural Month celebrations and features a series of free concerts in regional centres, from Bundaberg to Barcaldine, Longreach, Rockhampton and Winton.
Creating a musical melting pot
Mario originally hails from Bolivia and plays panpipes, fusing traditional South American and Western music.
Mario embarked on a Bachelor of Music (Jazz) at the Queensland Conservatorium several years ago, picking up several new instruments including trumpet, saxophone and flute.
“It was the best decision of my life,” he says.
“Learning to play jazz has changed me as a musician – I’ve learnt to play new instruments, but also been able to play jazz using traditional instruments like panpipes.
“I love creating a musical fusion – it makes my soul happy.”
Queensland Conservatorium Director Professor Scott Harrison said Mario was part of a diverse