Geraldton’s St Francis Xavier Cathedral set to host international classical artists for Hawes Heritage

Geraldton’s St Francis Xavier Cathedral will be filled with international classical music when Monsignor Hawes Heritage Inc. hosts its Sounds Sublime event on Friday, April 12. Described by the organisation as “an exceptional musical experience”, the performance will be headlined by three feature artists. Professor Dr Wacław Golonka is a Polish organist who has received international awards and is a laureate of organ competitions in Prague, Nuremberg and Pretoria. Joining him is polish-born violinist Jacek Slawomirski, who moved to Perth 38 years ago to be a part of the WA Symphony Orchestra before becoming a violin studies lecturer at the WA Academy of Performing Arts. Vocalist Katja Webb will also be alongside them. She has lived in Perth since 1995 and has performed in Australia, China, Germany and the UK. Hawes Heritage Events co-ordinator Gerry Eastman said events like these were important for the organisation. “These events are a great way for us to highlight the building,” she said. “At the same time we raise awareness of the beauty of these buildings and the importance of them, and raise some funds and get people interested.” The concert aims to raise funds for Monsignor Hawes Heritage Incorporated, a group dedicated to conserving the buildings created by Monsignor John Hawes in the Mid West. This includes buildings in several towns, including Mullewa, Morawa and Perenjori. Ms Eastman said although the concert would be held at the cathedral, it was an event for everyone. “The acoustics in there are well recognised as being world class,” she said. “If you’ve never been to the cathedral before, it’s a great way to see the beauty and experience being in the building without having to go to a religious service.” Tickets to the event start at $50, with door sales available on the night. The organisation is also selling tickets on its website for its next event on Friday, April 26: a guided coach tour of some of Hawes’ buildings across Geraldton.