The Sydney Opera House has announced the 2026 program for its Utzon Music series. The second curated by performer and arts advocate Genevieve Lacey, the series gives a prestigious stage to 11 acts and 34 Australian and international performers, a “collection of the world’s finest chamber musicians across cultures, generations and traditions”.

The Balanas Sisters performing for the Utzon Music series. Photo © Ravyna Jassani.

“At Utzon Music, open-hearted listeners meet generous musicians up close,” said Lacey.  “Whether it’s tight Nordic harmonies, Persian radif, musical meditations on water, beloved classics or world premieres, you can be sure you’ll be in the company of expressive, virtuosic and wildly imaginative musicians.”

The Edge of Zen is the first program of the year on 1 February, uniting shakuhachi player Riley Lee, koto player Satsuki Odamura and Sydney’s Chroma Quartet in a blend of music from composers including Micho Miyagi, Debussy, Ross Edwards, Ann Boyd and Lachlan Skipworth.

Åkervinda. Photo © Angelica Hvass

All-female Swedish vocal quartet Åkervinda makes its...