Breaking boundaries with size, scale and emotional content, Beethoven shot the music world into a new century with this, his ‘Heroic’ symphony.
Beginning with two giant chords that open to a landscape of thrilling power, the symphony builds to final movements that are bright, bold and triumphant.

With these concerts, Icelandic phenomenon Víkingur Ólafsson makes his Australian concerto debut. Ólafsson’s exquisite performances have captivated audiences and inspired legions of new classical fans: ‘whatever he plays, Ólafsson treats the music with equal distinction: articulation wonderfully fleet and clean; the phrasing flexible, always alive; the range of touch in his fingers stretching into infinity,’ wrote The Times (London). Here he brings a contemporary touch to Ravel’s Piano Concerto, an ideal challenge for a soloist of such virtuosity.

Principal Guest Conductor Sir Donald Runnicles, renowned for creating experiences of great expressive power and distinction, leads these performances.