Good news for music enthusiasts and students on a budget—the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is bringing back its beloved free summer concerts at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, featuring a spectacular three-night program.
Starting 5 February 2025, these concerts will continue the MSO’s long-standing tradition of delivering world-class orchestral music under the stars at no cost.
The series kicks off with Journeys and Adventures, a thrilling opening night conducted by Leonard Weiss. This performance promises an eclectic mix of classic tunes, blending the epic scores of Star Wars with the elegance of Swan Lake and the lively energy of William Tell, making for a dynamic evening of music.
On 15 February, the spotlight shines on Chief Conductor Jaime Martín, who will make his debut at the Bowl with a program that exudes summer charm. Expect an exciting line-up including Dvořák’s Third Symphony, Gershwin’s captivating Rhapsody in Blue featuring pianist Andrea Lam, and Ravel’s crowd-pleasing Boléro.
The series concludes on 22 February with a Symphonic Showcase that highlights up-and-coming talent. Witness 20-year-old piano prodigy Reuben Tsang as he performs Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto. The evening will also feature world premieres by Cybec Young Composer in Residence Klearhos Murphy and the MSO’s first Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence, James Henry.
Gates open at 4:30pm each night, and it’s first-in-best-dressed. Each concert runs for about two hours with an interval—perfect for topping up those drinks and grabbing a bite.