At LTP; we often dream about the ultimate concert and at times, we’re lucky to be witness to events that truly dazzle. Last Friday night was no exception; as we were taken on a  musical journey through a stunning Latin guitar landscape with renowned guitarist Massimo Scattolin and ‘the Pens’ very own virtuoso Sergio Ercole.

The musical program featured an array of guitar masterpieces from Italy, Spain and South America and captured the thrill, romance and passion of the Latin guitar. The live performance was matched only by the landmark venue – Port Phillip Estate – that provided the space that fused exceptional music, landmark architecture, fine food and wine together.

Collaborations between Port Phillip Estate and the Peninsula Summer Music Festival are becoming legendary now, which is great for lovers of the Pen and music. They’re also getting harder to get into as they are a small intimate affair so a first in best dressed basis is at play. The only downside is that most events sell out within hours of announcement. This is the second event we have attended and we encourage all readers to keep the feelers out for any more that might surface in future.

Port Phillip Estate is an incredible space that fuses exceptional music, landmark architecture, fine food and wine.

Massimo Scattolin began his concert career as a soloist, developing his chamber music and orchestral activities to include some of the best-known concertos for guitar and orchestra. Composers such as Astor Piazzolla and Violet Archer have written musics for him. Massimo thus rose to the attention of European and American audiences, and has been described by critics as being one of the best guitarists of our times.

We were in the presence of two musical superstars.

Events like this at Port Phillip Estate are intimate something not quite replicated in MEL.

Sergio Ercole is one of Australia’s leading classical/Latin guitarists. Born in Florence, Italy, Sergio spent his early years in the Tuscan city before moving to Australia. Sergio has spent a significant time abroad, studying and performing extensively throughout the Mediterranean from mastering flamenco guitar in Spain, studying in Sienna and performing with Italy’s guitar greats along the Adriatic Coast.

‘Brothers in arms’ – bravo gentlemen!