Taking their repertoire of extraordinary concerts to dazzling new heights, QSO invites audiences to “Let go” in 2025 and allow themselves to be taken on a musical journey that will transcend genres and boundaries.

Shakespeare, circus, cinema, and world-class soloists are just some of the treats in store for 2025, with QSO aiming to elevate the experience of classical music and connect with audiences on a spiritual level.

QSO Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici describes that the theme of “spirituality and the world beyond” for the 2025 Season will embody the orchestra’s continued exploration and extension of its artistic boundaries. Maestro Clerici emphasises that “this program explores beauty, transcendence, and inspiration but also brutality and primal instincts. The juxtaposition of arts will make the music more vivid, dynamic, and visually stunning.”

The program will delve into themes such as religious spirituality in Lior and Westlake’s symphonic song cycle Compassion in August, and Verdi Requiem in October, as well as broader spiritual concepts such as life, death, fate, and philosophy portrayed through timeless compositions.

The 2025 program will feature collaborations with renowned performance company Circa in their Opening Gala: The Rite of Spring in February. A contemporary reimagination of the traditional accompanying ballet will see Circa delivering gravity-defying performances alongside QSO’s artist-in-residence, violinist Kristian Winther.

2025 at QSO will see a dynamic selection of world-class performers collaborating with the orchestra, adding new depths to an already outstanding repertoire. Influential actor and Director of Bell Shakespeare, John Bell, joins the orchestra for Shakespeare: The Tempest in May. Westminster Abbey organist of over 20 years, James O’Donnell, will serve up an earth-shaking performance in The Royal Organist. Other collaborations in 2025 include Canadian violinist James Ehnes, rising Swedish star Daniel Lozakovich, and renowned pianists Sir Stephen Hough, Alexander Gavrylyuk, Javier Perianes and dozens more.

Composers will also be taking the spotlight in 2025, with 200 years of Austrian composer Johann Strauss II featured in May with The Strauss Gala” Later that same month, the modern maestro, Hans Zimmer, will be showcased with the orchestra performing his most popular film scores including Pirates of the Caribbean, Gladiator, Driving Miss Daisy, The Lion King and many more.

In addition to these classical highlights, the orchestra will see their beloved movie concert series returning, bringing the symphonies of the silver screen to life with special presentations of film scores. James Bond’s Skyfall, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, and Home Alone will satiate music lovers and film buffs alike. QSO’s commitment to offering diverse and immersive experiences sees QSO’s fan favourite concert Cinematic returning for its sixth year, with an exciting Oscars twist. Cinematic: The Oscars will deliver Academy Award-winning and nominated compositions, as the orchestra stride onto the stage in fun-filled costumes.

QSO’s 2025 subscription packages are on sale now at qso.com.au/tickets/Season2025. Subscription packages boast savings on individual concert tickets, priority seat booking, free ticket exchange and exclusive invitations to orchestra rehearsals. Tickets to individual concerts will be on sale from November 11, 2024.

For more information about Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s 2025 Season and to secure the best seats, visit qso.com.au.