It begins with the four most famous notes in music. The legendary motif propels the entire first movement of Beethoven’s Fifth.

The power of this symphony never relents, from those iconic opening moments to the bright light of the finale. The end of the third movement is electric, strings hovering in suspense before erupting into one of the most triumphant transitions in classical music, from tension to pure release.

Returning after a triumphant Sydney debut in 2024 ‘that brought the house down’ (Limelight), conductor Anja Bihlmaier brings clarity and fire to this rich, century-spanning program.

Australian composer Melody Eötvös’ The Saqqara Bird will fill the Concert Hall with its atmospheric mystery. Inspired by an ancient Egyptian artefact, this is music rich in shifting shapes and shades.