In its opening concert for 2026, the KPO will perform Handel’s Suite of Music for the Royal Fireworks, Mozart’s Piano Concerto no.20 in D minor and Mahler’s first symphony, nicknamed ‘The Titan’.

Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks was composed for the grand celebration marking the end of the War of the Austrian Succession. It is a joyous and festive work comprising a rousing overture and dance movements. Its first performance brought London to gridlock as 12,000 people flocked to hear it. The KPO will perform the orchestral suite scored for full orchestra.

The KPO welcomes Vatche Jambazian to perform Mozart’s piano Concerto no.20 in D minor. The majority of Mozart’s compositions are in major keys but this concerto in the brooding key of D minor conjures up a stormy picture. From its very first performance this concerto has been a favourite with audiences and performers alike. Vatche Jambazian is one of Australia’s pre-eminent pianists, who performs regularly with the Omega ensemble and collaborates with some of Australia’s finest musicians.

The climax of KPO’s opening concert is Mahler’s Symphony no.1, possibly one of the most impressive first symphonies ever written. It is scored for a large orchestra used to reveal Mahler’s wide palette of tonal colours as you are taken on a journey of heroism through the work. This symphony will delight all as you hear Mahler’s inspired orchestration of folk-like melodies.

Join the KPO, led by chief conductor and artistic director, Paul Terracini, in an uplifting afternoon of wonderful music at The Concourse in Chatswood.