Sidney Myer Free Concert: Symphonic Showcase

Ben Northey conducts this evening of passion and drama, featuring two masterpieces of 20th-century orchestral music and two works receiving their world premiere.

Always an audience favourite, Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto opens with thunderous chords, giving way to moments of extraordinary lyrical beauty, with the piano and orchestra engaging in an intimate dialogue.

Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra then offers a remarkable display of virtuosity – a brilliant exploration of orchestral colour and complexity. From folk-like melodies to intricate counterpoint, this work is a showcase for the Orchestra, giving each section a chance to show off.

Each half of the program opens with an exciting new work – one from Cybec Young Composer in Residence Klearhos Murphy and another by the MSO's first Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence, James Henry.

Gates open at 5.30pm with entry on a first-in basis.