SSO in Armidale

Sydney Symphony Orchestra to perform in Armidale

by New England Times News Desk

The Sydney Symphony Orchestra will add Armidale to its 2026 Regional Tour, bringing a dance-inspired orchestral program and a series of young musician workshops to the New England.

The Orchestra will perform at Lazenby Hall on 22 May, with an afternoon schools concert followed by an evening public performance. The program, titled Sydney Symphony Performs Music That Moves You, will be led by Conductor in Residence Benjamin Northey and explores the influence of dance on orchestral music.

Armidale joins Port Macquarie, Nowra, and Canberra on the 2026 regional itinerary, expanding the Orchestra’s reach into north-west New South Wales.

The program features Claude Debussy’s Sacred and Profane Dances, showcasing Principal Harp Louisic Dulbecco, alongside Igor Stravinsky’s suite from The Firebird.

Zoltán Kodály’s Dances of Galánta draws on Eastern European folk traditions, while Sydney composer Holly Harrison’s Hi-Vis offers a contemporary work inspired by late-night roadworks.

“We’re so excited to take our music to Armidale,” Mr Northey said.

“These pieces practically dance themselves, and seeing communities light up with live orchestral music is what regional touring is all about.”

Beyond the concert performance, the Orchestra’s Playerlink program will return to Armidale from 19 to 21 June at the New England Conservatorium of Music. The three-day workshop invites young musicians from across NSW to rehearse and participate in masterclasses and mentorship with Sydney Symphony players, culminating in a performance for family and friends.

The Sydney Symphony has toured regional New South Wales since 1938, and the addition of Armidale continues that tradition, offering local audiences and emerging musicians the opportunity to experience a full symphony orchestra in their own community.

Tickets for the Armidale performances are on sale now.