In May, Harry Connick Jr. realised a long-held dream when he premiered a symphony honouring his late mother at Carnegie Hall, with Jessica Gethin and Orchestra Victoria. He tells Jo Litson why it was his most significant performance and introduces the accompanying recording, book and documentary.

Harry Connick Jr. and Australian conductor Jessica Gethin during rehearsals in Melbourne. Photo © Arsineh Houspian for News Ltd

Harry Connick Jr.’s musical gift was clearly evident from age five, so much so that his mother Anita – nicknamed Babe – was convinced he’d become a famous musician and dreamed of seeing him perform at Carnegie Hall.

“She made this known to me at an early age. She always said it with a smile, but I knew...