Why our biggest orchestra is headed out of the city and into the suburbs
It's all part of a strategy to reach a broader audience, according to MSO chief executive and director of programming Richard Wigley. As part of that aim, the orchestra will not increase its ticket prices for the year ahead, which Wigley says is possible thanks to philanthropic support.
The former head of the BBC Philharmonic and the Ulster Orchestras, Wigley represents a new guard at the MSO, having taking the reins from Sophie Galaise, who left in the wake of the MSO's controversial decision to drop pianist Jayson Gillham from its line-up for dedicating a piece of music to the journalists slain in Gaza. Gillham is suing the MSO for wrongful dismissal and the case is scheduled for the Federal Court in December.
The MSO's plan to increase its accessibility extends into its programming choices for the coming year, which feature new commissions alongside contemporary works and evergreen favourites.
The In Your Neighbourhood program continues, which this year included a concert on the Mornington Peninsula, as well as Jams for Juniors (learning sessions for toddlers), school holiday music activities, workshops and specialist music training for young students, and performances in aged care facilities. Details will be announced next year.
There are plenty of big names and big concerts on the schedule for the next 12 months – along with some surprises.
In his fifth year as chief conductor for the MSO, Jaime Martín will – temporarily – put down his baton and return to his flautist roots, playing the instrument as part of MSO programming in Australia for the first time. 'I hope I don't regret it,' Martín joked at the media program launch.
The 2026 season will include Welsh bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel, as well as a series of performances conducted by Scottish composer Sir James MacMillan. In May, Melbourne-born soprano Danielle de Niese will make her way through selections from classic musicals by Gershwin, Porter and Bernstein.
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