ASO’s 2026 Season celebrates powerful legacy of 90 years of music

A man and woman sit side by side, playing a double bass together in a cozy setting.
In 2026, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra (ASO) will mark a major milestone — 90 years of bringing world-class music to South Australians. The ASO has unveiled an exciting new season featuring more than 100 performances across the state, inviting audiences of all ages to take part in a year-long celebration of live orchestral music.

From iconic symphonies and beloved film scores to Broadway blockbusters and groundbreaking Australian works, the 2026 program showcases the ASO’s rich legacy, artistic innovation, and deep community roots.


Season highlights

  • The Planets concert with Welsh baritone Sir Bryn Terfel
  • The return of the Symphony Series at Adelaide Town Hall, including:
    • Konstantin Shamray performing Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2
    • A new premiere by Joe Chindamo
    • World premiere by Holly Harrison featuring accordionist James Crabb
    • A conductor-only version of Wagner’s The Ring, led by Mark Wigglesworth

“Music is a timeless force for good,” says Chief Conductor Mark Wigglesworth, now in his second year with the ASO.

Wigglesworth also leads the Sibelius Symphonies series, a deep dive into the music of one of the 20th century’s most influential composers.

A large audience seated in a spacious hall, attentively watching a live orchestra performance on stage.
Image: Saige Prime.

New works & cultural collaborations

The ASO joins forces with the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music and Soundstream New Music to present Waltjapiti Tjungu – Together, One Family, featuring three powerful world premieres that highlight First Nations voices and contemporary Australian creativity.

Special events

A large screen displays a scene from a Harry Potter movie, showcasing magical elements and characters.
Image: Jack Fenby
  • An Evening on Broadway: Music theatre favourites Josh Piterman and Amy Manford perform hits from Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story and more.
  • The Music of Joe Hisaishi: A tribute to the famed Studio Ghibli composer
  • A Night at the Ballet: Featuring iconic ballet scores, conducted by Jonathan Lo
  • Film favourites:
    • Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2
    • How to Train Your Dragon in Concert (SA Premiere)

“Nothing compares to a live concert and experiencing 80 musicians playing together,” says ASO Concertmaster Kate Suthers. “The music takes over your senses and exhilarates your emotions.”


ASO Season 2026 packages are now available now. Single Tickets on sale from 12 November 2025Full program and bookings: aso.com.au

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