A performance of beloved work The Planets, a night with Welsh Baritone Sir Bryn Terfel and a salute to the music of Broadway are some of the special events planned to celebrate the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra’s (ASO) 90th anniversary next year.
The ASO has revealed its 2026 Season with a grand program of events that will unite audiences in a year-long celebration of live music.
The season features more than 100 performances across South Australia honouring the orchestra’s passion, heritage and deep community connection.
ASO Chief Executive, Colin Cornish AM, said the season provides a significant opportunity to acknowledge the orchestra’s impact on the wider community - in South Australia and beyond.
“Our 90th anniversary season is an invitation to every South Australian to join the ASO and participate in live musical experiences that inspire, soothe and excite audiences of all ages,” Mr Cornish said.
“The program has been created to celebrate the enormous sense of pride the musicians and the community share for the orchestra.”
Marking the second year of his tenure as Chief Conductor, Mark Wigglesworth reiterated the connection between time and the power of live orchestral music in shaping the 2026 Season.
“Music is a timeless force for good, a force that is infinitely more powerful when experienced live,” Mr Wigglesworth said.
“The season embraces this power and connection on every level.”
The orchestra’s flagship Symphony Series will celebrate the electrifying experience of the ASO live across eight world-class concerts at Adelaide Town Hall.
The series opens with Jupiter featuring star Russian pianist Konstantin Shamray performing Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2.
Other highlights include ASO Principal Clarinettist Dean Newcomb premiering a new work by Joe Chindamo and a World Premiere ASO commission from Australian composer Holly Harrison performed by renowned classical accordionist James Crabb.
Mr Wigglesworth will lead an exclusive orchestra-only version of Wagner’s The Ring in a nod to the ASO’s pioneering role in bringing The Ring Cycle to Australia.
And the ASO’s sell-out composer immersive series will return to showcase the symphonies of legendary Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
In a celebration of culture, voice and innovation, the ASO will also present the first performances of three ground-breaking new works curated by the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music and Soundstream New Music in Waltjapiti Tjungu – Together, One Family.
And in an ASO first the orchestral beauty of iconic Japanese composer and pianist Joe Hisaishi comes to life in The Music of Joe Hisaishi, journeying through Studio Ghibli favourites and more.
ASO Concertmaster Kate Suthers reflected on the mesmerising experience of the ASO live in concert.
“Nothing compares to a live concert and experiencing 80 musicians playing together. The music takes over your senses and exhilarates your emotions”, she said.
“You can see and feel your experience reflected in the people around you, and in the commitment of the musicians on stage. If you haven’t heard the ASO live there’s never been a better time to do it.”
Packages for Season 2026 are now on sale, with single tickets on sale 12 November. Head to the ASO’s website to explore the full program.
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