The SSO’s 2027 season is a journey through music, history, and the city itself. From the opening moments of the launch, the energy in the room was palpable: a mix of deep tradition and bold adventuring spirit.
Simone Young—SSO’s beloved Chief Conductor—spoke from her “home,” the orchestra, reflecting on what makes the SSO so integral to Sydney. There’s something so grounding in her words; a sense that this orchestra is not just an institution, but a living, breathing part of the city, an expanded family that welcomes all.
Beethoven Festival – A Musical Odyssey
The Beethoven festival will be, truly, a highlight. For two weeks in June, every one of Beethoven’s nine symphonies will be performed in chronological order—a rare treat that traces not just the composer’s creative journey but his personal challenges, including the profound impact of deafness. The story unfolds in sound, inviting listeners to walk alongside Beethoven himself as his music grows and transforms. It will be history brought to life, making up for the lost 250th birthday celebration (cancelled by COVID), and reaffirming our connection to Beethoven 200 years since his death.
Mahler 7th Symphony – Simone Young’s Pick
Simone Young has chosen Mahler’s Seventh Symphony as the season opener. When she promises it will “blow your mind”—you can believe her. The epic scale and emotional intensity of Mahler’s work makes it an ideal curtain-raiser for such an ambitious season. Pairing this with audience favourites like Dvořák’s Cello Concerto (with the fearless Gautier Capuçon) and Vaughan Williams’ A London Symphony adds breadth and colour to the musical landscape.
Salome – Simone Young’s Personal Tradition
Another talking point was Simone Young’s almost ritualistic return to Richard Strauss’s Salome. Since 1995, she schedules herself to conduct this piece every few years, calling it her “Salome fix.” This year’s performance brings not only seasoned talent to the stage, but also introduces fresh voices—like Irish soprano Sinead Campbell Wallace—to breathe new life into the operatic masterpiece.
Multiple Venues – Music Across NSW
The excitement doesn’t stop at the Sydney Opera House. Concerts will reverberate in venues across Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle, and regional towns, from the Sydney Town Hall summer series to the City Recital Hall’s intimate artist collaborations. The SSO is showing its commitment to being a truly state-wide orchestra, reaching new audiences and building community.
Magnificent Projects and Fresh Collaborations
More than the expected classical repertoire. The season is full of innovative projects: from world premieres by composers like Ross Edwards and Alex Turley, to film music favourites (Star Wars, Harry Potter, Titanic), and artistic collaborations with figures like Ben Folds, Rupert Wainwright, and Troy Cassar-Daley. All these elements show a keen dedication to relevance and accessibility.
Celebrating Musicians and Community
The 25th anniversary of the Fellowship Program shines a spotlight on the orchestra’s commitment to nurturing talent, with alumni returning to perform. During the launch, trumpeter David Elton and oboist Shefali Pryor spoke with real passion about the new repertoire and opportunities for musicians and audiences to connect in unexpectedly intimate ways—like “cocktail hour” concerts, curated to feel like music in your living room.
A Season of Passion and Commitment
The SSO’s CEO Craig Whitehead summed up the mood: gratitude, community, and recognition that this world-class orchestra is only possible thanks to the dedication of players, donors, and audiences. The season trailer, played at the end, offered a glimpse of what’s ahead—music that stirs the soul in venues both grand and familiar; a season built on quality, passion, and generosity.
Why be excited?
Because this season feels like an invitation to reconnect—with music, history, place, and each other. Whether you’re swept up by the monumental Beethoven festival, the drama of Salome, or the community spirit behind regional tours and fellowship celebrations, there’s something here to truly stir the heart.
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