MSO 2025 Annual Report

Report 2025

Governor’s Message

As Patron of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, I send my warm congratulations to all its members on another significant year of contributing to Victoria’s culture.

Orchestral music is timeless – yet like any artform, it relies on commitment and investment to ensure its enjoyment can continue to be shared in the future.

At its best, music has the power to inspire and connect people from all walks of life. During times of difficulty and uncertainty, this ability to create shared meaning across borders and cultures is more important than ever.

The MSO is to be commended for its work to increase the accessibility of classical music to broader audiences. The MSO explores a wide range of musical genres but also ensures that postcode is not a barrier to experiencing the joys it has to offer.

In doing so, the Orchestra continues to develop a distinctly Victorian flavour to its music while also adding to the depth of local talent – an asset that is appreciated by those who call this State home, as well as audiences across the world.

The MSO’s ongoing commitment to collaboration and excellence gives us all confidence that it will continue to be instrumental in shaping Victoria’s vibrant arts scene for years to come.

Thank you to all involved in making this contribution possible – from the musicians on stage, the staff who bring them to the stage and board members who guide the Orchestra’s strategic direction, as well as all those in audiences who come to enjoy the fruits of this work.

Victoria

Chair’s Report

It is my pleasure to share the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s 2025 Annual Report.

This has been a year of transition and renewal for the Orchestra, marking the beginning of a new period for the MSO – one that has seen the establishment of a new leadership team and a renewed focus on the foundations that will support our future.

Across 2025, the Orchestra reached more than 2.7 million people through 371 performances and events and achieved a number of important artistic and organisational highlights.

These included our five-city tour across the UK and Europe, taking contemporary Australian orchestral music to international audiences, which was widely praised.

At home, we presented major performances including the Ryman Healthcare Season Opening Gala: Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony and the Ryman Healthcare Winter Gala featuring Lang Lang – one of the most influential classical musicians of our time.

It was also a year of careful work behind the scenes. We have focused on the ongoing and essential work required to support the long-term sustainability of the MSO, strengthening our governance, processes and operating foundations.

As a result of this work, the MSO achieved the highest box office result in its history, generating $18 million in sales, alongside increased philanthropic contributions from our community in 2025. This is a clear reflection of the continued support for the MSO and the place it holds in the cultural life of Melbourne and beyond.

Our underlying operating result for 2025 was a deficit of $978,162, compared to a deficit of $1,951,796 in 2024. This improved year-on-year outcome reflected our record 2025 Box Office performance; however, it also demonstrates the ongoing impact of inflation on costs associated with delivering performances, which continues to be felt across the sector.

In 2025, Richard Wigley began his first full year as Chief Executive Officer, following his interim appointment and confirmation in the role in December 2024, and I stepped into the role of Chair, alongside Chief Conductor and Artistic Advisor Jaime Martín, whose leadership continues to guide the Orchestra’s artistic direction.

We farewelled two long-serving and deeply valued Directors. Dr David Li AM officially stepped down as Chair in February after more than a decade of extraordinary contribution and now continues his association with the Orchestra as Chair Emeritus. David’s leadership has played a significant role in shaping the MSO’s international presence and cultural partnerships, particularly across the Asia-Pacific region.

We also thanked Margaret Jackson AC for her 11 years of service to the Board, including as Co-Deputy Chair. Her insight, experience and commitment have been invaluable to the organisation over many years.

At the same time, we welcomed five new Non-Executive Directors – Tony Grybowski, Chris Howlett, Joel McGuinness, Lisa Mitchell and Meredith Schilling SC –whose collective experience across the arts, governance and public institutions will play a crucial role in guiding the Orchestra’s future. We also welcomed Randal Williams as Company Secretary.

In 2025, we marked 60 years of the MSO Chorus – an important milestone that reflects the depth of artistry and musicianship that sits alongside the Orchestra.

As the MSO moves into its 120th anniversary in 2026, we are focused not only on celebrating the Orchestra’s history, but on continuing to build what comes next.

The MSO has long held a special place in Melbourne’s cultural life, as the Orchestra of this city, for its people and its communities. That role continues to evolve, and we are committed to ensuring it remains relevant, accessible and special for generations to come.

None of this would be possible without the continued support of our audiences, donors, partners and funding bodies. Your belief in the MSO enables us to do this work, and to continue bringing music into the lives of people across Victoria and beyond.

Finally, I extend my sincere thanks to our musicians and staff. Their dedication, teamwork and musicality remain at the heart of everything we do.

It is a privilege to serve as Chair at this point in the Orchestra’s journey, as we continue towards our 120th year and onwards.

Edgar Myer MSO Chair

Chief Executive Officer’s Report

It is my great fortune to lead the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and to experience its music-making at the highest level.

In November 2024, the MSO re-committed to placing orchestral music at the centre of all that we do. While this may seem obvious, it is important from time to time to reaffirm the fundamental value of our art form. Performing great music – honouring tradition, championing new work, and finding opportunities to reach more people in different formats and venues – remains our core purpose. Whether through the great masters, feature-length film concerts, or collaborations with contemporary bands, it is all about the music.

I am pleased to acknowledge our Chief Conductor, Jaime Martín, for his continued artistic leadership and contribution across the year. Jaime brings a joyful energy and a deep love for this city and its Orchestra. Our Principal Guest Conductor Benjamin Northey continues to play an important role in both core repertoire and in reaching new audiences, consistently drawing the best from our musicians across an eclectic range of programmes. Our Artist in Residence James Ehnes brought magnificent artistry across multiple programs, and we were pleased to welcome back Melburnian Nicholas Carter to lead performances celebrating the 60th anniversary of the MSO Chorus.

Our work with Australian artists and composers, particularly through the creation of new music, remains central to who we are. We are proud to be of Melbourne and Australia. We continue to commission significant Australian works that reflect the breadth of stories and perspectives shaping our national identity.

Taking the Orchestra to the world provided defining moments in the year. Our UK and European tour brought the MSO together at the highest level, including a landmark performance at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg and the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. These performances showcased the calibre of the Orchestra in international contexts and confirmed what we do not say often enough – that the MSO stands alongside the very best orchestras in the world. Sharing Australian voices internationally, including the work of Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO and Margaret Sutherland AO OBE, presented a distinctive Australian artistic identity.

The Sidney Myer Free Concert Series remains a unique and important part of our offer to Melbourne, and for 70 years these concerts have been a high point of the city’s summer. The launch of MSO in Your Neighbourhood, beginning in Mornington, reflects our intent to engage more directly with communities and to make the Orchestra more accessible beyond the traditional concert hall.

These achievements are only made possible with the commitment, artistry, creative curiosity and high standards of our musicians, MSO Chorus, staff and collaborators. We should all be proud of the part we play at the MSO.

My thanks also to our Board, our donors, partners and government, and to our audiences for their continued support in an extraordinary year.

As we look ahead, our focus remains clear. It is always about the music, and about ensuring the MSO continues to play a vital, ambitious and connected role in the life of Melbourne and Victoria.

Thank you,

Richard Wigley CEO

Chief Conductor’s Report

As I reflect on my fourth season with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, I feel a deep sense of connection – to this extraordinary group of musicians, and to the incredible city and people of Melbourne.

What continues to inspire and energise me most is the music we create together. Opening the year with Mahler’s Second Symphony was a remarkable moment that will stay with me – an extraordinary work, full of power and beauty, brought to life with such intensity and focus by our musicians.

This energy carried through the year in many ways. Conducting for the first time at the Sidney Myer Free Concert Series – such a loved and iconic event for Melbourne – and feeling the warmth of the audience was truly unforgettable. It was also a great joy to collaborate with exceptional artists including Daniil Trifonov, Lang Lang and Joyce DiDonato.

A particular highlight was Liza Lim’s cello concerto

A Sutured World – a work of striking imagination and depth, co-commissioned by the MSO and recognised internationally with the Grawemeyer Award for Music Composition. I am very proud that the MSO continues to support music like this, bringing new voices to life and contributing to Australian music that resonates around the world.

Taking this spirit and this sound beyond Australia was an important part of our European tour. Returning to the Santander International Festival – where, as a child, I first discovered my love of music when my father took me to a concert – was deeply moving. That moment has never left me. To return there with the MSO, performing Pictures at an Exhibition for my family – the same music I first heard there as a child – was very special, and full of emotion.

Experiences like this remind me how important it is that young people have the opportunity to encounter music – because a single moment can change everything, as it did for me. This is why our work with emerging artists and the next generation matters so much: through our Schools concerts, the MSO Academy, and our partnerships with the Australian National Academy of Music, the Australian Youth Orchestra and the Melbourne Youth Orchestras.

Throughout the year, I have felt a deep admiration for the musicians of this Orchestra – for their openness, their curiosity, and their commitment to making music with such honesty and intensity. Thank you for your passion and professionalism.

To our audiences, patrons and supporters – thank you. It is a joy to share this music with you. With your support, we can continue and keep this Orchestra strong for the future.

Jaime Martín Chief Conductor & Artistic Advisor

330,119 LIVE AUDIENCE

176 PERFORMANCES

98% OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS BELIEVE THE MSO IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE CITY’S CULTURAL LIFE

128 EDUCATION WORKSHOPS ATTRACTING 16,861 students and teachers/views

2.38M

DIGITAL AND BROADCAST AUDIENCE

MSO CONCERTS VIEWED IN 60 COUNTRIES

95% OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS BELIEVE THAT THE MSO IS A TRULY GREAT ORCHESTRA

13 SCHOOLS PERFORMANCES ATTRACTING 10,380 school-aged students and teachers/views

51 AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT TALKS, CONVERSATIONS & LEARNING EVENTS ATTRACTING 6,568 people

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON IN CONCERT

HIGHEST GROSSING IN 2025 WITH 13,926 attending

WINNER

2025 AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT RECORD LABELS ASSOCIATION AWARDS

ELECTRIC FIELDS X MSO: LIVE IN CONCERT for Best Independent Classical Album or EP

20 WORLD PREMIERES*

90,355 FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS

54,886 INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS

24,013 YOUTUBE SUBSCRIBERS

1,996 TIKTOK FOLLOWERS

8,448 LINKEDIN FOLLOWERS

3,190 NEWS MENTIONS with audience reach of 113,116,043

47 MSO COMMISSIONS PERFORMED*

arrangements

Mission, Vision and Values

Mission

Vision

Guiding Principles

We create orchestral music that matters

Where orchestral legacy meets bold artistry – defining contemporary Australian sound through artistic innovation and a deep commitment to the artists of tomorrow.

We Listen

...to each other and our audiences, by continuously tuning into our community to build connections that bring joy and belonging.

Underpinning Values

Perspective

We embrace and seek new commissions, artists, talent and musical formats to capture the distinctive and evolving sound of our state

Transparency

We build genuine trust and connection through openness, honesty and accountability

Respect

We interact positively, showing kindness, care and consideration for all within our community

We Create

...welcoming experiences that showcase the beauty and wonder of our artistic craft, and innovative performances that elevate the moment and endure in the spirit.

Innovation

We look to reimagine what symphonic music can be to all people, finding new ways to inspire, engage and create

Bold

Our performances are shaped by courage, creativity, and a commitment to bring worldclass music to life

Excellence

We strive to be the best we can be, on and off the stage

We Unite

...our individual strengths and celebrate our unifying love of music, fostering understanding and belonging.

Oneness

We aspire to be the musical voice of modern Victoria, remaining relevant, vibrant, and inclusive for all people

Teamwork

We work in harmony –as an ensemble, with our partners, and with our community

Accessibility

We provide musical experiences for all Victorians to enjoy, wherever and whoever they are

2025 Artistic Family

Jaime Martín

Chief Conductor and Artistic Advisor

Chief Conductor of the MSO since 2022, and Music Director of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra since 2019, with those roles currently extended until 2028 and 2027 respectively, Spanish conductor Jaime Martín was also the Principal Guest Conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales for the 24/25 season, and has held past positions as Chief Conductor of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland (20192024), Principal Guest Conductor of the Spanish National Orchestra (2022-2024) and Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of Gävle Symphony Orchestra (2013-2022).

Jaime also served as Artistic Director of the Santandar International Festival, and was a founding member of the Orquesta de Cadaqués.

Warren Trevelyan-Jones

MSO Chorus Director

Regarded as one of the leading choral conductors and choir trainers in Australia, Warren was appointed Chorus Director of the MSO in 2017. He has an extensive singing career as a soloist and ensemble singer in Europe, and has appeared on more than 60 CD recordings, numerous television, and radio broadcasts, and in many of the world’s leading music festivals and concert halls.

Benjamin Northey

Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor – Learning and Engagement

In addition to his role at the MSO, Benjamin is also the Chief Conductor of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and Conductor in Residence of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. His international appearances include concerts with London Philharmonic Orchestra, Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, Mozarteum Orchestra Salzburg, Hong Kong Philharmonic, National Symphony Orchestra of Colombia, and New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.

Leonard Weiss CF

Cybec Assistant Conductor

Supported by Cybec Foundation

Australian conductor Leonard Weiss CF has a thriving career fuelled by a passion for both classical and contemporary music. Continuing as the MSO’s Cybec Assistant Conductor in 2025, Leonard led numerous performances including making his debut at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. In 2025, Leonard conducted under the mentorship of Andris Nelsons and the Boston Symphony Orchestra as a Tanglewood Music Center Conducting Fellow, and also won the Khachaturian International Competition and Third Prize at the Toscanini Competition.

Liza Lim AM Composer in Residence

Liza Lim is a composer, educator, and researcher whose music focusses on collaborative and transcultural practices. Beauty, rage & noise, ecological connection, and female spiritual lineages are at the heart of many of her works. Widely commissioned by some of the world’s pre-eminent orchestras and ensembles, Lim is Professor of Composition and Sculthorpe Chair of Australian Music at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Klearhos Murphy

Cybec Young Composer in Residence

Supported by Cybec Foundation

Klearhos Murphy is a GreekAustralian composer who specialises in composing and arranging music for symphonic and chamber music settings, drawing from Western Art, Byzantine chant and Greekfolk traditions. He has worked with national and international ensembles including West Australian Symphony Orchestra and Vienna Pops Orchestra.

2025 Artistic Family

James Henry

Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence

Supported by Cybec Foundation

James Henry is a highly-sought after composer and sound designer known for his unique fusion of traditional Aboriginal and contemporary musical genres. His versatile skill set has led him to compose for prestigious ensembles including the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Philharmonia Choir, Melbourne String Ensemble, and the Derwent Valley Concert Band.

Christian Li

Young Artist in Association

Christian has captivated audiences around the world since he became the youngest-ever Junior 1st Prizewinner of the 2018 Yehudi Menuhin International Violin Competition aged 10. In 2020 he became the youngest artist ever to sign with Decca Classics, and the youngest violinist to professionally record Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons (with the MSO). July 2023 saw the release of Christian’s second album Discovering Mendelssohn, also with the MSO.

James Ehnes

Artist in Residence

James Ehnes has established himself as one of the most sought-after musicians on the international stage. Gifted with a rare combination of stunning virtuosity, serene lyricism and an unfaltering musicality, Ehnes is a favourite guest at the world’s most celebrated concert halls. James performed three different programs with the MSO in 2025, including Brahms’ Violin Concerto, Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons and also gave a masterclass with musicians from the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM).

Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO

First Nations Creative Chair

Soprano and composer Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO (Yorta Yorta/ Yuin) is a respected human rights advocate and recognised thought leader on the importance of cultural authority in the Art Music space. Deborah has championed the voice and visibility of classically trained Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island musicians through her achievements as a composer, performer, and artistic director of Short Black Opera and Dhungala Children’s Choir. In 2021 she began a five-year appointment as MSO First Nations Creative Chair and in 2023 was appointed the inaugural Elizabeth Todd Chair of Vocal Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Karen Kyriakou

Artist in Residence, Learning and Engagement

Karen Kyriakou’s work as an educator, presenter, author and composer/ arranger is underpinned by her passion for music’s unique capacity to unite and inspire. She works broadly in the area of music education, with students from kindergarten to tertiary level. With more than 25 years’ experience in the field, Karen is renowned for her innovative approach to music education. Karen has led the MSO’s ever-popular Jams for Juniors since its inception.

Xian Zhang

Artistic Ambassador

Sought after across the globe, GRAMMY® Award winner Xian Zhang has been Music Director of New Jersey Symphony since 2016. Previous positions include Music Director of Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano (2009–2016, continuing as Conductor Emeritus) and Principal Guest Conductor of BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Zhang was the first female conductor to hold a titled role with a BBC orchestra.

Tan Dun

Artistic Ambassador

The world-renowned artist and UNESCO Global Goodwill Ambassador, Tan Dun has made an indelible mark on the world’s music scene with a creative repertoire that spans the boundaries of classical music, multimedia performance, and Eastern and Western traditions.

Lu Siqing

Artistic Ambassador

Born in Qingdao, China, Lu Siqing is one of China’s superstars of the violin. Invited by Yehudi Menuhin to study at his school in London aged 11, in 1984 he returned to China, and five years later went to Juilliard to study with Dorothy DeLay. In 1987 he was the first Asian violinist to win First Prize at Italy’s Paganini International Violin Competition.

Hiroyuki Iwaki AO†

Conductor Laureate

In memoriam: 1974–2006

The MSO’s longest serving conductor, Hiroyuki Iwaki commenced as Chief Conductor in 1974, and in 1990 was appointed as the MSO’s first Conductor Laureate, honouring his contribution to the Orchestra’s development. His dedication earned him many accolades including the renaming of the ABC Southbank studio to the Iwaki Auditorium in 1995.

Sir Andrew Davis CBE†

Conductor Laureate

In memoriam: 2013–2024

Acclaimed conductor Sir Andrew Davis conducted virtually all the world’s major orchestras and opera companies during his distinguished career of more than fifty years. Sir Andrew became the MSO’s second Conductor Laureate in 2020 following his highly successful tenure as Chief Conductor from 2013–2019.

Meet the Orchestra

First Violins

Second Violins

Double Basses

Meet the MSO Chorus

Satu Aho

Shirin Albert

Philippa Allen

James Allen

Richard Allison

Maurice Amor

Ruth Anderson

Emma Anvari

Julie Arblaster

Carolyn Archibald

José Miguel Armijo Fidalgo

Margaret Arnold

Ryder Babcock

Sheila Baker

Helena Balazs

Aviva Barazani

Kevin Barrell

Tharanga Basnayake

Tina Battaglia

Giselle Baulch

David Bennett

Tes Benton

Catherine Bickell

Adam Birch

Cecilia Björkegren

Kirsten Boerema

Kent Borchard

Stephen Bordignon

Kate Bramley

Jane Brodie

Steve Burnett

Eva Butcher

Peter Campbell

Jacqueline Cheng

Allan Chiang

Ariel Chou

Alexandra Chubaty

Juliarna Clark

Peter Clay

Andrea Clifford-Jones

Keaton Cloherty

Aliz Cole

Gabrielle Connell

Marie Connett

Veryan Croggon

James Dal-Ben

Ella Dann-Limon

Roger Dargaville

Samantha Davies

Ted Davies

Michele de Courcy

Peter Deane

Carlos Del Cueto

Isabelle Dennis

Jose Diaz

James Dipnall

Clarissa Dodawec

Anna Dvorak

Mari Eleanor-Rapp

Simon Evans

Keren Evans

Nicola Eveleigh

Dionysia Evitaputri

Ewan

Laura Fahey

Lisa Faulks

Rita Fitzgerald

James Fletcher

Catherine Folley

Susan Fone

Carolyn Francis

Nicole Free

Claudia Funder

Jill Giese

Natasha Godfrey

Simon Goldman

Michael Gough

Karina Gough

Jillian Graham

Debbie Griffiths

Sophia Gyger

Elliott Gyger

Andrew Ham

Ros Harbison

Kim Sue Hendry

Jennifer Henry

Kristine Hensel

Andrew Hibbard

Helen Hill

Yvonne Ho

Lyndon Horsburgh

Gay Hosie

John Howard

Penny Huggett

Gina Humphries

John Hunt

Fergus Inder

Tania Jacobs

Jordan Janssen

Gwen Kennelly

Theresa Lam

Natasha Lambie

Gary Levy

Katie Lewis

Natalie Lezhenko

Charlene Li

Judy Longbottom

Julie Lotherington

Helen MacLean

Tim March

Lilijana Matiçevska

Philip McCosker

Christina McCowan

Rosemary McKelvie

Douglas McQueen-Thomson

Charlotte Midson

Stephanie Mitchell

Michael Mobach

Penelope Monger

Sandy Nagy

Chloe Newmann

Caitlin Noble

Susie Novella

Vern O’Hara

Julie O’Reilly

Karin Otto

Elise Parsonage

Nicole Paterson

Jodie Pilkington

Amanda Powell

Natasha Pracejus

Douglas Proctor

Stephen Pyk

Alison Ralph

Jean-Francois Ravat

Tanja Redl

Kate Rice

Beth Richardson

Jo Robin

Linton Roe

Helen Rommelaar

Kerry Roulston

Annie Runnalls

Elizabeth Rusli

Lesley Salvestrin Collins

Jodi Samartgis

Jillian Samuels

Lisa Savige

Colin Schultz

Cleve Schupp

Kathryn Scully

Victoria Sdralis

Julienne Seal

Fiona Seers

Nick Sharman

Carol Silberberg

Jemima Sim

Robert Simpson

Eleanor Smith

Chiara Stebbing

Fiona Steffensen

Liam Straughan

Ellie Sykes

Rachel Sztanski

Cameron Tait

Melvin Tan

Jill Thomas

Bruce Thompson

Tracey Thorpe

Libby Timcke

Elizabeth Tindall

Christa Tom

Matthew Toulmin

Caleb Triscari

Katy Turbitt

Jenny Vallins

Tracy Videon

Ariane Vrisakis

Brad Warburton

Asami Weaver

Stewart Webb

Elliott Westbury

Agnes Widjaja

Jillian Wood

Stephen Wood

Simon Wu

Boya Yan

Jiunn Yap

Raoul Zambelli

Tara Zamin

Channery Zhang

Maciek Zielinski

Timothy Mallis

(Rehearsal Pianist)

In Performance

In 2025, the MSO launched a renewed mission to create ‘orchestral music that matters’ – grounded in a clear ambition to deliver meaningful impact, engaging individuals and communities across our state through the power of music in ways that are personal and transformative.

This direction was reflected across the year’s program, bringing together the full breadth of the Orchestra’s artistic role. From leading international artists and great works of repertoire, to contemporary collaborations that connected new audiences and the spotlighting of emerging Australian talent, the 2025 season delivered depth, scale and reach.

The MSO connected with 2.7 million people in 2025 through shared cultural moments and milestones, demonstrating the growing relevance of orchestral music across the city and beyond. This included the 60th anniversary of the MSO Chorus, which celebrated its own distinct artistic identity and longstanding contribution to Melbourne’s choral life.

MSO Highlights

Ryman Healthcare Season Opening Gala: Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony

Season 2025 opened with Mahler’s monumental Symphony No.2, led by Chief Conductor Jaime Martín. The epic chorale finale culminated in a transcendent, life-affirming conclusion with the MSO Chorus (prepared by MSO Chorus Director Warren Trevelyan-Jones), Australian soprano Eleanor Lyons and Scottish mezzo-soprano Catriona Morison. The MSO’s Ryman Healthcare Gala Series was presented by MSO Premier Partner, Ryman Healthcare.

“When the final, exultant E-flat chord faded into silence, the hall erupted into a rapturous standing ovation. It was a triumphant start to the MSO’s 2025 season.”

— Limelight, 3 March 2025

Joined with Gold

In Liza Lim’s A Sutured World, the cello pours out a vein of illumination that binds different orchestral worlds together, reflecting the Japanese art of kintsugi – repairing broken ceramics using gold. The Australian premiere of this work, co-commissioned by the MSO and written by 2025 Composer in Residence Liza Lim AM, featured renowned cellist Nicolas Altstaedt and was conducted by Jaime Martín. Lim was honoured with the prestigious 2026 Grawemeyer Award for Music Composition for A Sutured World. This remarkable program also included Tchaikovsky’s triumphant Fourth Symphony and Ravel’s La Valse

“This premiere could not have had a warmer reception. When Alstaedt’s bows finally came to rest, Hamer Hall positively erupted in a long and heartfelt round of applause for Altstaedt, Maestro Martín, the MSO and Lim.”

— Classic Melbourne, 12 March 2025

Disney in Concert

Co-presented with MM Creative Productions, this world premiere of Disney in Concert featured magical music from Disney movies including Moana, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King and Frozen. Captivating clips from these classic animated films were projected live as the MSO, musical theatre stars Amy Manford, Christine Allado, Joshua Robson, Nick Afoa and Ruva Ngwenya, and the MSO Chorus delighted audiences of all ages.

“It goes without saying that it was a total joy to watch each individual musician in the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the wonderful Jessica Gethin. To see them playing their instruments so fiercely, knowing every small (or big) sound coming from every one of them was contributing to this immense, sweeping soundscape of beautiful music, was indescribable. How special that we got to witness such phenomenal talent, right before our very eyes.”

— scenestr, 26 March 2025

Daniil Trifonov Plays Rachmaninov

One of today’s leading classical stars, Grammy-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov joined the MSO and Jaime Martín for much-lauded performances of Rachmaninov’s exhilarating Third Piano Concerto. This work was complemented by a rare performance of Dvořák’s Symphony No.2, later released on the MSO’s second Dvořák Cycle album alongside Symphony No.8.

“Trifonov’s performance of this epic concerto was a thoroughly engrossing one, a roller-coaster of emotions, fuelled by white heat energy, ardent lyricism, and unrelenting concentration. It is surely one of the highlights of the 2025 concert season and fully deserved the tutti standing ovation at the conclusion of the barn-storming finale.”

— Classic Melbourne, 4 April 2025

Grieg’s Piano Concerto

One of the most sought-after artists of her generation, Elim Chan made her MSO debut conducting a stunning program that included Anna Clyne’s This Midnight Hour, RimskyKorsakov’s Scheherazade and Grieg’s Piano Concerto. The electrifying pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk brought stunning virtuosity as soloist in the latter, while Chan was praised for her nuanced and spirited conducting.

“Concertmaster Tair Khisambeev’s recurring violin solos were a particular highlight – vibrant, soulful and assured, capturing the spirit of the titular storyteller. The wind and brass principals also acquitted themselves admirably, their solos enhanced by occasional sultry portamenti that underscored the exotic flavour of Rimsky Korsakov’s writing.”

— Limelight, 2 June 2025

Classic 100 in Concert

The third edition of this popular live event featuring highlights from ABC Classic’s annual countdown celebrated the piano in 2025 with a selection of audience-favourite pieces by Gershwin, Chopin, Rachmaninov, Elena KatsChernin AO, Nat Bartsch and more. Presented by familiar ABC figures Jeremy Fernandez and Megan Burslem, this unforgettable evening featured performances from Andrea Lam, Dong Jun ‘DJ’ Ha and Konstantin Shamray, among others, and is available to watch on ABC iView.

“At Hamer Hall, the magnificent Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, under conductor Benjamin Northey and guest pianists, have transported the audience to a place of joy.”

— Melbourne Observer, 27 June 2025

Ryman Healthcare Winter Gala: Lang Lang

The singular piano sensation of this century returned for one night only with the MSO and Chief Conductor Jaime Martín. Lang Lang brought all the dazzling charm and extroverted drama required for Saint-Saëns virtuosic Second Piano Concerto. Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition – performed again on the MSO’s UK and Europe Tour in August – delighted the filled-to-capacity audience at Hamer Hall alongside Ravel’s Spanish-flavoured Alborada del gracioso. The MSO’s Ryman Healthcare Gala Series was presented by MSO Premier Partner, Ryman Healthcare.

“The blinding virtuosity of the tarantella finale left many wondering how anyone could play so fast and so accurately. Images of a fluttering hummingbird came to mind. This seemingly superhuman talent, the stuff of lasting memories, unsurprisingly elicited a rapturous ovation.”

— The Age, 2 July 2025

How to Train Your Dragon in Concert

Four sold-out concerts at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre gave our largest audience of 2025 a thrilling experience as the MSO performed John Powell’s Academy Award®-nominated score live to picture. Conductor Nicholas Buc led the Orchestra through Dreamworks’ epic adventure enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

“This is exactly why I love these film concerts. They bring people in from all over the country to experience fantastic favourite films in a new light. For this concert, there were many children not only seeing How To Train Your Dragon for the first time but they were also experiencing their first live symphony orchestra performance.”

— Lilithia, 1 August 2025

Impressions of Paris

Rodolfo Barráez conducted these compelling performances that opened with the world premiere of Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence James Henry’s Newport Lakes. Soloist Nicholas McCarthy – born without a right hand – then joined the MSO to perform Ravel’s unusual Piano Concerto for the left hand. César Franck’s expansive Symphony in D minor then explored the full range of orchestral colours and textures. Earlier in the week, Nicholas participated in a thought-provoking conversation with respected access, equity and inclusion consultant Morwenna Collett and pianist/composer Nat Bartsch to explore disability in classical music as part of the MSO’s Music and Ideas series, supported by the Australian Government Department of Health, Ageing and Disability and City of Melbourne.

“Rodolfo Barráez was in total command of the large forces and the massed string playing was passionate and superb. Michael Pisani played the elegaic cor anglais tune with quiet grace, sinuous where necessary.”

— ClassikON, 26 October 2025

Piano Man: Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel

Presented in association with Make My Mark and directed by Mark Sutcliffe, the MSO celebrated one of the most successful artists of all time with Nicholas Buc’s new orchestral arrangements of Billy Joel’s greatest hits, conducted by Cybec Assistant Conductor Leonard Weiss. Vocalists Phil Burton, Alinta Chidzey, Jess Hitchcock and Josh Piterman had the audience dancing and clapping along in one of 2025’s liveliest concerts.

Ryman Healthcare Spring Gala: Joyce DiDonato

Following a sold-out masterclass with artists from Melba Opera Trust, superstar soprano Joyce DiDonato performed Berlioz’ Les nuits d’ete at two special concerts with the MSO conducted by Jaime Martín. Opening with Rossini’s galloping William Tell Overture and also featuring Respighi’s Fountains of Rome and Pines of Rome, these sonically spectacular evenings served as a warmly-received bookend to the MSO’s Season 2025. The MSO’s Ryman Healthcare Gala Series was presented by MSO Premier Partner, Ryman Healthcare, and the Masterclass with Joyce DiDonato was supported by City of Melbourne.

“DiDonato took evident delight in revealing the elegant sensuality and profound emotion flowing from this supreme expression of French romanticism. Charting a journey from innocence through loss to new life, the six songs were a perfect vehicle for her vocal versatility.”

— The Age, 21 November 2025

MSO Chorus Highlights

Coronation Anthems

MSO Chorus Director Warren Trevelyan-Jones led this celebratory concert of choral music traditionally performed at British coronations. Soloists from Melba Opera Trust joined the MSO Chorus and members of the Orchestra to perform anthems by Handel as well as more recent compositions commissioned for King Charles III’s coronation.

“The MSO Chorus’s strength is in its freshness clarity of tone in combined sections, where they succeed in an exuberant performance Handel’s Coronation Zadok the Priest, accompanied by a suitably crisp string section of the MSO. This allowed the addition of the brass section to unite with the choir and ensemble in a rousing finale, leaving the audience at Hamer Hall suitably enamoured by the spirit of the occasion.

— Classic Melbourne, 12 March 2025

Mozart’s Great Mass

The MSO Chorus celebrated its 60th Anniversary with a spectacular performance of Mozart’s Great Mass in C minor and Brahms’ Schicksalslied conducted by Australian Nicholas Carter and featuring sopranos Siobhan Stagg and Samantha Clarke, tenor Matteo Desole and bass David Greco.

“Carter’s insistence on engaging the chorus as the equal heart of the performance allowed the Mass to shine in its fullest majesty. The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Chorus revealed themselves once again as an ensemble of great sensitivity, capable of traversing biography, philosophy and theology in music that speaks both to human intimacy and to the ineffable beyond.”

— Classic Melbourne, 21 September 2025

Secret Symphony at Pentridge Prison

Showcasing the MSO in unexpected locations across Melbourne since 2015, Secret Symphony’s second outing of 2025 featured the MSO Chorus performing two sold-out concerts at Pentridge Prison in Coburg. This journey exploring a path of grief and exile to homecoming and redemption was conducted by MSO Chorus Director Warren Trevelyan-Jones with Timothy Mallis accompanying on piano.

“...an unforgettable experience for all those who went to the show.”

— Weekend Notes, 14 November 2025

Meeting Australian Makers

At its heart, the MSO is dedicated to shaping the sound of contemporary Australia, bringing new voices together with our orchestral tradition to reflect who we are today. Through collaboration, commissioning and artist development, we create space for Australian artists to be celebrated and heard.

In doing so, we not only contribute to a distinctive and evolving national sound, but also support the long-term sustainability of both established and emerging talent.

In 2025, we performed more than 108 Australian works including 47 MSO commissions, cocommissions and arrangements, strengthening a growing pool of original music.

Across the year, we featured 178 Australian artists, with collaborations spanning contemporary artists such as Lime Cordiale and The Whitlams, alongside development pathways through programs such as MSO Academy and our Cybec Young Composer in Residence, and partnerships with ANAM and the Melbourne Youth Orchestra.

Our commitment to First Nations artists and stories remained central, with 23 works by First Nations composers presented across the season. Highlights included Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO’s Treaty, premiered at the Edinburgh International Festival on the same day Victoria signed Australia’s first statewide Treaty, reflecting a timely moment of national and historical significance.

Contemporary Collaborations

The Whitlams with the MSO

The first indie band to perform with Australian orchestras in 2004, The Whitlams returned to the MSO stage with a retrospective performance of the band’s career. With arrangements by renowned composers such as Benjamin Northey, Brett Dean, Iain Grandage, Daniel Denholm, Jamie Messenger and Nicholas Buc, these concerts showcased Australian talent across the musical spectrum.

“Melbourne Symphony Orchestra injected an already beautiful selection of songs with spinetingling emotion, this reviewer’s eyes constantly cloudy with tears with every crescendo.”

— scenstr, 8 September 2025

108 AUSTRALIAN WORKS PERFORMED*

Lime Cordiale and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Pop-rock duo Lime Cordiale teamed up with the MSO and conductor Vanessa Scammell for an unforgettable concert of their biggest hits. The MSO co-commissioned orchestral arrangements from former Cybec Young Composer in Residence Alex Turley, who also mentored Noami Dodd, Callum O’Reilly and Ben Robinson in arranging works for Lime Cordiale’s Australian tour. Bringing audiences to their feet and inspiring spontaneous sing-alongs, these energetic performances at Hamer Hall demonstrated the power of collaboration to bring generations together.

“For the audience, it was pure joy: the kind of night where you walk out of Hamer Hall with a smile, a laugh, maybe even a tear, and the sense you’ve just witnessed something unique.”

— Noise11, 13 September 2025

178

AUSTRALIAN GUEST ARTISTS, SOLOISTS AND ENSEMBLES

"This pop-rock duo teaming up with the MSO has to be one of the best things to happen since sliced bread."

— Weekend Notes, 12 September 2025

First Nations

Seasons

Developed from The Seasons Project conceived by the Melbourne String Ensemble, this program featured compositions that articulated a First Nations’ perspective on the passing of the year, composed by First Nations artists, including Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence James Henry, and curated by Noongar man Aaron Wyatt. These compositions were paired with Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, led by 2025 Artist in Residence James Ehnes, to create a dialogue between traditional and contemporary perspectives.

Original Concept by Caitlin Williams. Realised and developed by Caitlin Williams, Creative Producer, Fintan Murphy, MSE Artistic Director & Conductor and Imogen Williams, Development.

“With such an enriching MSO program, scintillating strings and a most charismatic James Ehnes in a world-class performance, few people remained in their seats to applaud all performers on this unforgettable night.”

— Classic Melbourne, 30 March 2025

First Voices Showcase

Aaron Wyatt conducted and presented this evening featuring world premiere performances of two works by James Howard and Nathaniel Andrew, participants in the MSO’s 2025 First Voices composer program. This event was proudly presented by MSO Major NAIDOC Week Partner, Equity Trustees, and supported by City of Melbourne as part of MSO’s Music and Ideas series.

“This mix of music and conversation underscored the importance of ongoing pathways for Indigenous musicians, allowing spoken and musical languages to be reclaimed and creative Indigenous voices to be heard. The crucial work of reconciliation cannot be advanced without voices such as this.”

— The Age, 5 June 2025

Yinya dana: lighting the path

The MSO marked the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week celebrating the Strength, Vision and Legacy of Yorta Yorta / Yuin composer and soprano Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO with a powerful concert of works by this acclaimed national treasure. Conducted by Aaron Wyatt and Nicolette Fraillon AM, the Orchestra was also joined by the MSO Chorus, soloists William Barton, Jess Hitchcock, Lillie Walker and members of the Dhungala Children’s Choir.

This performance was co-presented with Short Black Opera and in association with Creative Australia, Creative Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, ABC Classic and Vic NAIDOC. This performance was proudly presented by MSO Major NAIDOC Week Partner, Equity Trustees.

“This extraordinary artist is not only part of the MSO family, but also a singularly important part of Australia’s wider cultural landscape.”

— Classic Melbourne, 14 July 2025

Aaron Wyatt’s work with the MSO is generously supported by the Sage Foundation.

New Worlds: Jaime conducts Cheetham Fraillon and Dvořák

Alongside Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony, the MSO and Chief Conductor Jaime Martín performed the Australian premiere of Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO’s Treaty, featuring William Barton on yidaki (didgeridoo) at both Hamer Hall and Costa Hall in Geelong. Treaty, capturing the journey of Australian First Nations’ final moments of selfdetermination and sovereignty to the present day, received its world premiere in Edinburgh during the MSO’s UK and European Tour.

“Throughout the night, Martín’s rapport with the MSO resembles a dance partnership, his direction feeling more like a joyful invitation for collaboration than traditional command. Between Barton, Martín and the MSO, the night is a brilliant celebration of music as a tool for storytelling, remembering and reckoning.”

— Limelight, 30 November 2025

Emerging Artists

Cybec Artist Development Programs & Showcase

In 2025, Cybec Foundation continued their support of four important programs for emerging artists: the Cybec 21st Century Australian Composers Program, the Cybec Young Composer in Residence, the Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence, and the Cybec Assistant Conductor program.

The annual Cybec Showcase took place on 25 January, presenting the world premiere of the previous year’s Cybec program participants: Our Worlds Unfolding by Zinia Chan, Komorebi by Andrew Aronowicz, Submergence/y by Rachel Meyers, and the constellations we draw by Robert McIntyre. Andrew Aronowicz was announced as the 2026 Cybec Young Composer in Residence.

Cybec Showcase was supported by City of Melbourne as part of the MSO’s Music and Ideas series.

Australian Conducting Academy

Run in partnership with professional symphony orchestras across Australia and led by Benjamin Northey, this national program is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of home-grown conductors to ensure the sustainability of the orchestra industry in Australia.

The Australian Conducting Academy presents a unique opportunity for aspiring conductors from Australian and New Zealand to learn from experienced orchestral leaders and to have the chance to work with all major orchestras in Australia.

The participants of MSO’s 2025 module of the Australian Conducting Academy were Sam Allchurch, Daniel Corvaia, Aija Draguns, Joseph Hie, Anna Rabinowicz, Euan Safey, Neil Wang and Aaron Wyatt.

MSO Academy

Providing young instrumentalists a vital final bridge to a successful career, the MSO Academy is a paid opportunity for post-graduate musicians embarking on their career as professional musicians. Entry to the Academy is by audition, and the program runs for 12 months. Participants are guaranteed more than 60 mainstage calls and chamber music projects, mentorship with permanent MSO Musicians, and professional development and other industry training.

In 2025, Academy members Joshua Jones (cello), Joolee Kim (flute), Joel Walmsley (trumpet), and Michael Lo (trombone) bookended their year with two showcase chamber performances. They also performed as part of the Orchestra in a diverse range of concerts throughout the year.

AYO Production Traineeship

With a mutual objective to develop the next generation of artists and arts workers, the MSO was pleased to continue a collaboration with Australian Youth Orchestra to deliver a comprehensive training experience to enhance technical production skills within the performing arts sector. Supported through a Creative Australia Workforce Development grant, the MSO and AYO have designed a program which will see participants gain on the job training and exposure to technical production professionals.

Snare Drum Award

Established by MSO percussionist Robert Cossom in 2004, the MSO Snare Drum Award is designed to encourage the pursuit of excellence in snare drum performance. Open to undergraduate tertiary students from Australia and New Zealand, the award provides an exclusive opportunity for applicants to further develop audition skills and performance techniques in a professional environment.

Finalists competed in a showcase on 4 August in Iwaki Auditorium, with Sasha Wee named as the 2025 MSO Snare Drum Award winner.

The MSO’s Snare Drum Award is very generously supported by Tim and Lyn Edward, Cecilie Hall, and the late Hon. Michael Watt KC. The MSO is also grateful to Mastro Snare Drums, Zildjian, Evans, and Just Percussion for donating the Award prizes, and to City of Melbourne for supporting the Music and Ideas series.

Indonesian Internship Program

Each year, the MSO welcomes two interns from Indonesia, supported through the partnership with the Government of the Special Region of Yogyakarta. In November and December 2025, Yose Prasetya and Andreas immersed themselves in the day-to-day life of the MSO, working with musicians and staff to develop their skills and knowledge.

The MSO’s 2025 engagement with Indonesian was gratefully supported by the Victorian Government.

Meeting our Audience

The MSO exists to create moments of connection for audiences across Victoria, Australia and beyond through music. In 2025, we continued to expand how and where people engaged with our work – across live performance, community programs, touring and digital platforms.

Exploring how people experienced the MSO, and how we could bring the MSO into communities, remained a core focus. In 2025, we continued our more than 70-year presence in Geelong through a dedicated local series, supported by the Geelong Friends of the MSO, and ongoing outer-suburban and regional touring to Ballarat, Hamilton, Horsham, Bairnsdale, Bendigo, Wonthaggi, Shepparton, Wangaratta and Nunawading. The MSO’s regional performances received support from AWM Electrical, Estate Late Blanch Brooke Hutchings, Freemasons Foundation Victoria, Perpetual Foundation – Alan (AGL) Shaw Endowment, Robert Salzer Foundation and the Rural City of Wangaratta..

New low-cost initiatives such as MSO in Your Neighbourhood, launched in Mornington to a sellout audience, built on this further by embedding the Orchestra within hyper-local communities through immersive, multi-day and multi-format experiences.

We also deepened our commitment to accessibility, ensuring more people feel welcome and connected to the Orchestra. This included the development of the MSO’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and supporting initiatives such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. Building on our history of Classic Kids relaxed performances, we introduced relaxed mainstage concerts, attracting 3,696 attendees across the year – a 17% increase from 2024.

Beyond the concert hall, the MSO expanded its digital reach year-on-year by 22%, engaging 2.38 million people across Australia and internationally through digital and broadcast activity, including our partnerships with the ABC and award-winning label LSO Live.

Broadcast

The MSO’s partnership with ABC Classic brought its 2025 performances to Australians and the international community through live and pre-recorded broadcasts on the radio and online.

Once again, ABC Classic broadcast the MSO Sidney Myer Free Concert series live, and also offered live and prerecorded broadcasts of performances including Joined with Gold, Seasons, Ryman Healthcare Winter Gala: Lang Lang, Mozart’s Great Mass, and New Worlds: Jaime conducts Cheetham Fraillon and Dvořák, among others.

The 2025 edition of ABC Classic 100 in Concert featured on ABC TV and iView for the third year running – the culmination of ABC Classic’s popular countdown for Australia’s favourite classical music.

Pre-recorded MSO performances also featured on ABC’s new program Front Row. Hosted by ABC Classic’s Megan Burslem, in 2025 Front Row included broadcasts of Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO’s Eumeralla: a war requiem for peace, Sir Andrew’s Messiah, and Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony featuring the MSO Chorus and Auslan Choir.

Album Releases

Holst: The Planets – Deborah Cheetham Fraillon: Earth

178,747 STREAMS IN 2025

The MSO’s third album release united Holst’s Planets suite with the world premiere recording of Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO’s Earth. Written in response to the accompanying work on this album, Earth represents her seventh composition created for the musicians of the MSO, and brilliantly highlights Cheetham Fraillon’s exceptional talents as both a composer and singer. This recording also features the MSO Chorus and was conducted by Jaime Martín.

The artwork for this album was created by Wurundjeri / Yorta Yorta artist Simone Thomson and represents various elements of earth, stars, sun and natural elements.

“An excellent release all around.”

— Limelight, 8 August 2025

Mo’Ju with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (Double J Live at the Wireless)

8,320 SPOTIFY STREAMS IN 2025

Double J released an album of Wiradjuri/Filipino artist Mo’Ju with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Buc at a live performance in Hamer Hall in March 2023.

Featuring orchestral reimaginings of Mo’Ju’s catalogue, including their acclaimed single “Native Tongue”, this LP captured this milestone collaboration, with Mo’Ju’s soulful vocals alongside arrangements by Jamie Messenger.

Dvořák: Symphonies 2 & 8

39,592 STREAMS IN 2025

The second release of the MSO’s Dvořák cycle paired the popular eighth symphony and the rarely-recorded second symphony of the Czech composer under the direction of Chief Conductor Jaime Martín. Recorded at Hamer Hall in 2024 and 2025, this double-disc release was the fourth release on the MSO’s record label.

“A life-enhancing release, with, by the way, wonderful sound. Worthy to rank alongside Szell, Kubelík and Mackerras.”

— Limelight, 2 December 2025

WINNER

2025 AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT RECORD LABELS ASSOCIATION AWARDS

ELECTRIC FIELDS X MSO: LIVE IN CONCERT for Best Independent Classical Album or EP

Streaming

The MSO continued to livestream concerts and events on YouTube, including the 2025 Sidney Myer Free Concert series, Cybec Showcase, First Voices Showcase, masterclasses with 2025 Artist in Residence James Ehnes and soprano Joyce DiDonato, and the panel discussion Creating an Inclusive Future with pianist Nicholas McCarthy, composer Nat Bartsch and access, equity and inclusion consultant Morwenna Collett.

The MSO also celebrated First Nations Voices during AusMusic Month in November with new streaming releases of Yinya dana: lighting the path and Seasons, recorded earlier in the year.

2.38M DIGITAL AND BROADCAST AUDIENCE

MSO CONCERTS VIEWED IN 60 COUNTRIES

Accessibility

In 2025 the MSO released its first Disability Inclusion Action Plan (2025-2028). This Plan outlines the strategy to embed access and inclusion principles across all aspects of work and will shape how the MSO engages artists, audiences and employees across the organisation – both online and in person. This plan will evolve as challenges, opportunities, and insights arise while the organisation works towards making the MSO a more equitable, accessible and diverse place to experience music.

The MSO is committed to increasing disability confidence and competence within the organisation and sector, and is working to create an environment where everyone can engage with the MSO on an equal basis, with a focus on culture and employment, creative experiences and community.

In 2025 the MSO continued to offer Relaxed Performances as part of the Classic Kids series and added a mainstage Relaxed Performance of A Reflection in Time conducted by Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor – Learning and Engagement, Benjamin Northey.

The MSO also provided Auslan interpretation at Jams for Juniors workshops and for presentations at Quick Fix at Half Six performances.

The MSO’s Music and Ideas series explored the topic of Creating an Inclusive Future with conversation hosted by respected access, equity and inclusion consultant and leader Morwenna Collett and featuring internationally acclaimed one-handed pianist Nicholas McCarthy, and pianist and composer Nat Bartsch.

Music and Ideas is supported by City of Melbourne.

The development of the MSO’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, Relaxed Performances and Auslan interpretation were supported by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

MSO in Your Neighbourhood

The MSO brought the Orchestra to the people of Greater Melbourne with the new initiative MSO in Your Neighbourhood, a series of hyper-local outreach activities and performances.

Through consultation and collaboration with artists and community members, MSO in Your Neighbourhood seeks to connect with new audiences by making symphonic music accessible, relevant, and inspiring to all with no- to low-cost concerts that proudly embed the MSO within a range of communities.

The inaugural edition in 2025 included a tailored array of activities on the Mornington Peninsula, including Jams for Juniors, Jams in Schools, school holiday music activities, creative workshops and performances.

Children from the Mornington region were able to participate in a creative workshop led by conductor Aaron Wyatt and presenter-soloist Eliza Shephard to compose a work, which was performed at a concert with the MSO at Peninsula Community Theatre.

Karen Kyriakou, MSO Artist in Residence for Learning and Engagement, also delivered Jams for Juniors workshops at McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery, where the MSO will return as part of a 2026 partnership.

The success of the first MSO in Your Neighbourhood will expand in 2026 to include four communities across Greater Melbourne.

MSO in Your Neighbourhood is proudly supported by the Hansen Little Foundation.

Activities and performances on Mornington Peninsula were presented in collaboration with McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery.

Meeting of Cultures

Through artistic collaboration, exchange and shared performance, the MSO creates opportunities for deeper cultural understanding and connection – both within our community and across the world. As a cultural organisation that reflects and represents Melbourne, a city defined by both diversity and legacy, we recognise our responsibility to enrich the lives of communities across Victoria.

In 2025, we expanded access to world-class international artists for Victorian audiences, fostering meaningful cross-cultural exchange and broadening local perspectives. Across the season, we welcomed 151 international guest artists and ensembles – a significant increase year on year – and collaborated with major local multicultural events such as Asia TOPA.

Our program and activity reflected Australia’s place within the Asia-Pacific region, celebrating the artists, instruments and musical traditions of Pacific Rim countries including China, Singapore, Japan and Indonesia. A highlight was welcoming our partners, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra for their debut Australian performance as Australia and Singapore celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations, building upon our 2024 tour to Singapore.

Internationally, the MSO continued its 60-year touring legacy with a five-city UK and Europe Tour, performing to sold-out audiences at leading world stages. Artistic highlights included Prof. Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO’s Treaty, featuring yidaki master William Barton, at the Edinburgh International Festival and Elbphilharmonie – pinnacle experiences our musicians carry back to communities across Victoria.

Asia-Pacific

Chinese New Year

The MSO rang in the Year of the Snake with a crosscultural celebration featuring Eastern and Western masterpieces. Pianist Haochen Zhang performed Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.4, which was paired with Zhao Jiping’s Pipa Concerto No.2 performed by Zhang Hongyan. Renowned conducted Lü Jia returned to lead the MSO after a highly lauded performance in 2023.

Chinese New Year was proudly presented by MSO Premier Partner, Ryman Healthcare. The event was also supported by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne, Ministry of Culture and Tourism China, Li Family Trust, Austar, Chin Communications and C.F. Yeung & Family Philanthropic Fund.

“As a celebration of the Year of the Snake, and its promises of wisdom, longevity, and renewal, Hamer Hall’s Chinese New Year concert surely laid strong foundations to the months ahead.”

— Beat Magazine, 8 February 2025

Singapore Symphony Orchestra

Building on the MSO’s performance with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra in 2024, the MSO presented the SSO’s long-awaited Australian debut, joined by violinist Chloe Chau. Conducted by artistic director Hans Graf and featuring Australian-born principal cellist Ng Pei-Sian, the SSO performed Brahms’ 1887 Double Concerto for Violin and Cello, Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony, and Luciola singapura, a new work by Singaporean composer Koh Cheng Jin.

Asia TOPA Opening Night | William Yang: Milestone

The MSO opened Asia TOPA’s 2025 Season with the Victorian Premiere of a new co-commission by the MSO, Asia TOPA and Arts Centre Melbourne, written by Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin AO.

This performance showcased the trailblazing AsianAustralian artist William Yang, who documented the birth of Australia’s LGBTQI+ rights movement from the early days of Sydney’s Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras to the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and 90s.

Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor – Learning and Engagement Benjamin Northey conducted the MSO and Elena Kats-Chernin AO in this landmark work as Yang reflected on his life as his iconic photos were projected in Hamer Hall.

William Yang: Milestone was co-presented with Arts Centre Melbourne and Asia TOPA, supported by Playking Foundation and the Robert Salzer Foundation, with additional support from Creative Australia and City of Sydney.

Metropolis Festival: Composing Australia

Night one of MSO’s annual Metropolis Festival celebrating new orchestral music featured the world premiere of Jessica Wells’ Concerto for Guzheng and orchestra. This groundbreaking concerto was commissioned by the MSO and performed by Mindy Meng Wang, one of the world’s finest players of the Chinese zither.

Curated by 2025 Composer in Residence Liza Lim AM, this concert also included Holly Harrison’s Hi-Vis, Ella Macens’ The Space Between Stars and Fiona Hill’s Śūnyatā

This performance was supported by MSO East meets West partners the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne, Ministry of Culture and Tourism China, Li Family Trust, Ryman Healthcare, Austar, Chin Communications and C.F. Yeung & Family Philanthropic Fund.

The Music of Joe Hisaishi

Art of the Score presented a new concert event exploring the music of Joe Hisaishi, the prolific composer for Studio Ghibli classic films including My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Spirited Away. Nicholas Buc conducted this musical love letter to Japan’s great Maestro, which was hosted by Art of the Score podcasters Andrew Pogson and Prof. Dan Golding, alongside special guest pianist Aura Go.

This concert was produced in association with Concert Lab.

“Nicholas Buc shared a fine balance of greatest hits – ‘My Neighbour Totoro’, ‘Spirited Away’ – and hidden gems, such as the vibrantly minimalist ‘DA.MA.SHI.E’, in a fabulous commemoration of the beloved composer.”

— scenestr, 11 November 2025

MSO in Indonesia

In October 2025 a delegation of five MSO string players plus MSO staff, including CEO Richard Wigley, commenced a visit to Indonesia with workshops and rehearsals with the Yogyakarta Royal Orchestra (YRO) and Yogyakarta Royal Youth Orchestra.

The MSO delivered the Youth Music Camp and Arts Management Workshop, incorporating both in-person and online sessions from senior MSO staff.

The theme of the 2025 Youth Music Camp was ‘The Harmony of Working Hand in Hand’, culminating in a concert featuring works by Handel, Australian composer Caerwen Martin, Karl Jenkins, Eric Whitacre and a new commission written by Yogyakarta composer and University of Melbourne alumni Vishnu Satyagraha. Vishnu’s work, Aluna Digdaya, featured a traditional rice pounding device, the ‘Gejog Lesung’, where the wooden mortar and pestles became musical instruments, and also included singing and dancing from a modern performance troupe.

Australian Deputy Head of Mission, Ms Gita Kamath, joined the Orchestra for the collaboration concert as a violinist –an impactful moment in this ongoing project between the MSO and Yogyakarta Special Region.

The MSO’s 2025 engagement activities in Indonesia are supported by the Victorian Government.

UK & Europe

In August 2025, the MSO and Jaime Martín were invited to perform at five of the world’s greatest music festivals, in some of the world’s most celebrated venues – including the Edinburgh International Festival, Santander International Festival, Südtirol Festival, Elbphilharmonie Summer and the BBC Proms.

These invitations are among the highest distinctions in the orchestral world, representing the pinnacle of an orchestral musician’s career. The MSO shared their world-class artistry with capacity audiences across the UK and Europe, receiving rapturous applause, critically acclaimed reviews and standing ovations – and creating powerful moments of musical importance and emotion.

The MSO’s 2025 UK and Europe Tour was made possible with support from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts, the Gandel Foundation, Metal Manufactures Electrical Merchandising and MSO Tour Circle Patrons.

“William Barton’s unveiling of the world premiere of Deborah Cheetham Fraillon’s Treaty for Yidaki and Orchestra was utterly mesmerising.”

— The Scotsman

“When the last notes dissolved and the audience broke into ovations, the feeling remained of having experienced something more than a concert: an act of belonging. Martín returned home not only as conductor of a major international orchestra, but as a symbol that music can unite geographies and memories.”

— Platea Magazine

“The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, on its first European tour with Jaime Martín, captivated the Elbphilharmonie with great presence, full sound, and impressive virtuosity. At the end, there was not only frenetic applause but also rhythmic clapping and standing ovations. The MSO shone and impressed with its versatility.”

— Hamburger Abendblatt Newspaper

“With the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra coming off as the ultimate star of the night, their whole execution served as a crucible of performative excellence, where each element came together in a perfect cadence of craftsmanship, fervour, and mellifluousness.”

— First Night Magazine

Meeting Music at Every Stage

Fostering a lifelong connection to music begins with access, curiosity and meaningful early experiences. The MSO is committed to creating pathways for audiences of all ages to discover, engage with and deepen their relationship with music – from first encounters in early childhood through to broader exploration and understanding as adults.

Programs such as Jams for Juniors introduce children aged 0–5 to the tactile and sensory joy of live music, building confidence, creativity and connection from the very beginning. In 2025, we delivered 61 events, increasing participation by 23%.

We extended this impact into classrooms through Jams in Schools, working with primary-aged students in low socio-economic communities to ensure access to high-quality music education regardless of background. Workshops increased by 68%, reaching 5,238 students.

Individual philanthropic support played a vital role in expanding access, enabling subsidised $9 student ticketing and 57 bus coaches for schools transport, supporting more than 2,000 students to attend MSO schools concerts.

Beyond early engagement, programs such as Music and Ideas and Quick Fix enriched the concert experience for 18,607 people (digital and in-person), offering deeper insight into repertoire, performance and the creative process.

Jams in Schools

The MSO continued Jams in Schools in 2025, bringing the Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors series into primary schools around Victoria. The program is curriculum-linked and is designed to enhance students’ understanding of orchestral music and instruments through the investigation of musical themes and compositional techniques, all in a participatory and interactive format.

Led by the MSO’s Artist in Residence, Learning and Engagement, Karen Kyriakou together with six MSO musicians, Jams in Schools delivered free workshops to more than 5,200 school children in its second year.

Jams in Schools was generously supported by Major Partner Melbourne Airport, the Department of Education, Victoria, through the Strategic Partnerships Program, AWM Electrical, Jean Hadges, Hume City Council, and Marian and EH Flack Trust.

42 JAMS IN SCHOOLS SESSIONS DELIVERED

5,238 STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN JAMS IN SCHOOLS

MSO for Schools

Inspiring students and supporting the work of teachers in the classroom, the MSO for Schools program in 2025 included concerts for students of all ages and abilities, learning resources for generalist and specialist music teachers, and pathways for schools that have never engaged with the MSO. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, tickets to MSO for Schools concerts remained at $9 each.

In 2025 the MSO performed two Schools’ programs for Primary students at Hamer Hall: Wizardry School, presented by Dr Richard Vaudrey and Eliza’s Orchestral Adventures presented by Eliza Shephard. The MSO also presented Schools’ concerts in Shepparton and Wangaratta, as well as offering two digital broadcasts and downloadable teacher resources to reach schools across Victoria.

Additionally, the MSO also offered two open rehearsals, with conductors Alpesh Chauhan and Rodolfo Barráez, for students in Years 7-12.

Secondary students were also able to access mainstage performances as part of the Meet the Music series, which offered $9 tickets to school groups attending concerts throughout 2025. Each Meet the Music performance included a digital pre-concert talk to help students prepare for the concert.

Ensuring disadvantaged and diverse schools had equal access to MSO learning programs, the Schools Concert Experience Excursion Subsidy supported more than 2000 students from government primary and secondary schools with an Index of Community Socio-educational Advantage (ICSEA) below 1000, included subsidies for 57 buses.

MSO for Schools, and the MSO Schools Concert Experience Excursion Subsidy are supported by an anonymous donor.

MSO Schools’ performances in Shepparton and Wangaratta were supported by AWM Electrical, Estate Late Blanch Brooke Hutchings, Freemasons Foundation Victoria, Perpetual Foundation – Alan (AGL) Shaw Endowment, the Robert Salzer Foundation, and the Rural City of Wangaratta.

Music and Ideas

The MSO’s Music and Ideas program offer an array of public activities designed to enrich the audience’s connection to MSO performances, with accessibly priced tickets and free events available both online and in-person.

In 2025 the MSO presented thirteen Music and Ideas events, including open rehearsals led by Chief Conductor Jaime Martín and international guest conductors Elim Chan and Shi-Yeon Sung; masterclasses with Chief Conductor Jaime Martín, Artist in Residence James Ehnes, and soprano Joyce DiDonato; and a thought-provoking conversation with access, equity and inclusion consultant Morwenna Collett, one-handed pianist Nicholas McCarthy, and pianist-composer Nat Bartsch.

Music and Ideas is supported by City of Melbourne.

3,599 IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE AT MUSIC AND IDEAS EVENTS

13,627 ONLINE VIEWS OF MUSIC AND IDEAS EVENTS

Our Supporters

MSO PATRON

Her Excellency Professor, the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria

HONORARY APPOINTMENTS

Chair Emeritus

Dr David Li AM

Life Members

John Gandel AC and Pauline Gandel AC

Jean Hadges ♡

Sir Elton John CBE

Lady Primrose Potter AC

Jeanne Pratt AC

Lady Marigold Southey AC

Michael Ullmer AO and Jenny Ullmer

MSO Ambassador

Geoffrey Rush AC

ARTIST CHAIR BENEFACTORS

Chief Conductor Chair Jaime Martín

– Supported by the Besen Family Foundation

Cybec Assistant Conductor Chair Leonard Weiss CF – Cybec Foundation

PROGRAM BENEFACTORS

MSO Now & Forever Fund: International Engagement Gandel Foundation

Artist Development Programs –Cybec Foundation

Cybec Young Composer in Residence

Cybec First Nations Composer in Residence

Cybec 21st Century Australian Composers Program

Community and Public Programs

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Aging, AWM Electrical, City of Melbourne, Hansen Little Foundation, Professor Mary-Jane Gething AO

Student Subsidy Program Anonymous

Jams in Schools Melbourne Airport, Department of Education, Victoria –through the Strategic Partnerships Program, AWM Electrical, Jean Hadges, Hume City Council, Marian and EH Flack Trust

MSO Regional Touring AWM Electrical, Freemasons Foundation Victoria, Robert Salzer Foundation, Sir Andrew and Lady Fairley Foundation, Rural City of Wangaratta, Estate of the late Blanch Brooke Hutchings, Perpetual Foundation –Alan (AGL) Shaw Endowment

Sidney Myer Free Concerts Sidney Myer

MSO Trust Fund and the University of Melbourne, City of Melbourne Event Partnerships Program

Instrument Fund Tim and Lyn Edward, Catherine and Fred Gerardson, Pauline and David Lawton, Joe White Bequest

PLATINUM PATRONS ($100,000+)

AWM Electrical

Besen Family Foundation

Prof Mary-Jane Gething AO ♡

The Gross Foundation ♡

Dr David Li AM and Angela Li

Lady Primrose Potter AC

Anonymous (2)

VIRTUOSO PATRONS ($50,000+)

The Aranday Foundation

Mrs Jennifer Brukner OAM

Tim and Lyn Edward ♡ ♫

Dr Harry Imber ♡

Margaret Jackson AC ♡

Lady Marigold Southey AC

The Yulgilbar Foundation

IMPRESARIO PATRONS ($20,000+)

Christine and Mark Armour

Ren Barlow

Shane Buggle and Rosie Callanan ♡

Debbie Dadon AM

Catherine and Fred Gerardson

The Hogan Family Foundation

Pauline and David Lawton ♡

Jaime Martín

Paul Noonan

Elizabeth Proust AO and Brian Lawrence ☼

Sage Foundation ☼

The Sun Foundation

MAESTRO PATRONS ($10,000+)

John and Lorraine Bates ☼

Margaret Billson and the late Ted Billson ♡

John Calvert-Jones AM and Janet Calvert-Jones AO

Krystyna Campbell-Pretty AM

Jolene S Coultas ♡

The Cuming Bequest

Miss Ann Darby, in memory of Leslie J. Darby

Anthony and Marina Darling

Andrew Dudgeon AM ♡

Andrew and Theresa Dyer ♡

Val Dyke ♡

The Finkel Foundation

Kim and Robert Gearon ♡

The Glenholme Foundation

Charles & Cornelia Goode Foundation

Cecilie Hall and the late Hon Michael Watt KC ♡ ♫

Hanlon Foundation ♡

Michael Heine

David Horowicz ♡

Peter T Kempen AM ♡

Owen and Georgia Kerr

Suzanne Kirkham

Peter Lovell

Janet Matton AM & Robin Rowe

Rosemary and the late Douglas Meagher ♡

The Myer Foundation

Patricia Nilsson ♡

Dr Justin O’Day and Sally O’Day

Ian and Jeannie Paterson

Quin and Lina Scalzo

Glenn Sedgwick ♡

Cathy Simpson and John Simpson AM

David Smorgon OAM and Kathie Smorgon

Straight Bat Private Equity

Athalie Williams and Tim Danielson

Lyn Williams AC

The Wingate Group

Anonymous (1)

PRINCIPAL PATRONS ($5,000+)

Arnold Bloch Leibler

Mary Armour

Philip Bacon AO

Alexandra Baker

Barbara Bell, in memory of Elsa Bell

Julia and Jim Breen

Nigel and Sheena Broughton

Jannie Brown

Chasam Foundation

Janet Chauvel and the late Dr Richard Chauvel

John Coppock OAM and Lyn Coppock

David and Kathy Danziger

Mary Davidson and the late Frederick

Davidson AM

Sandra Dent

Carol des Cognets

George and Laila Embelton

Equity Trustees ☼

Bill Fleming

John and Diana Frew ♡

Carrillo Gantner AC and Ziyin Gantner

Geelong Friends of the MSO

The Glavas Family ♡

Louise Gourlay AM

Dr Rhyl Wade and Dr Clem Gruen ♡

Louis J Hamon OAM

Dr Keith Higgins and Dr Jane Joshi

Jo Horgan AM & Peter Wetenhall

Geoff and Denise Illing

Dr Alastair Jackson AM

John Jones

Konfir Kabo

Merv Keehn and Sue Harlow

Mr Ian Kennedy AM & Dr Sandra Hacker AO

Liza Lim AM ♫

Lucas Family Foundation ♡

Morris and Helen Margolis ♡

Samantha Mark

Allan and Evelyn McLaren

Dr Isabel McLean

Gary McPherson ♡

The Mercer Family Foundation

Suzie and Edgar Myer ♡

Rupert Myer AO and Annabel Myer

Anne Neil, in memory of Murray A. Neil ♡

Sophie Oh

Phillip Prendergast

Ralph and Ruth Renard

Jan and Keith Richards

Dr Rosemary Ayton and Professor

Sam Ricketson AM

Gillian Ruan

The Kate and Stephen Shelmerdine

Family Foundation

Helen Silver AO and Harrison Young

Brian Snape AM

Dr Michael Soon

Gai and David Taylor

P & E Turner

The Upotipotpon Foundation

Mary Waldron

Janet Whiting AM and Phil Lukies

Kee Wong and Wai Tang

Dawna Wright and Peter Riedel ♡

Peter Yunghanns

Igor Zambelli

Shirley and Jeffrey Zajac

Anonymous (5)

ASSOCIATE PATRONS ($2,500+)

Barry and Margaret Amond

Carolyn Baker

Marlyn Bancroft and Peter Bancroft OAM

Janet H Bell

Allen and Kathryn Bloom

Drs Alan and Jennifer Breschkin

Stuart Brown

Lynne Burgess

Dr Lynda Campbell

Oliver Carton

Caroline Davies

Leo de Lange

Rodney Dux

Diane and Stephen Fisher

Martin Foley

Barry Fradkin OAM and Dr Pam Fradkin

Anthony Garvey and Estelle O’Callaghan

Janette Gill

R Goldberg and Family

Goldschlager Family Charitable Foundation

Colin Golvan AM KC and Dr Deborah

Golvan

Miss Catherine Gray

Marshall Grosby and Margie Bromilow

Susan and Gary Hearst

Amy and Paul Jasper

Sandy Jenkins

Sue Johnston

Melissa Tonkin & George Kokkinos

Dr Jenny Lewis

David R Lloyd

Andrew Lockwood

Margaret and John Mason OAM

Lisa and Brad Matthews

Dr Paul Nisselle AM

Simon O’Brien

Roger Parker and Ruth Parker

Alan and Dorothy Pattison

Liz and Graham Pratt

James Ring

Tom and Elizabeth Romanowski

Dr Ronald and Elizabeth Rosanove

Christopher Menz and Peter Rose

Meredith Schilling SC

Marshall Segan, in memory of Berek

Segan OBE AM and Marysia Segan

Steinicke Family

Jenny Tatchell

Christina Turner

Timothy Walker CBE AM

Bob Weis

Anonymous (5)

PLAYER PATRONS ($1,000+)

Dr Sally Adams

Don Adamson

Jessica Agoston Cleary ∞

Don Adamson

Helena Anderson

Applebay Pty Ltd

Margaret Astbury

Geoffrey and Vivienne Baker

Mr Robin Batterham

Peter Berry and Amanda Quirk

Rick Berry

William Birch

Richard Bolitho

Boncal Family Foundation

Michael Bowles and Alma Gill

Joyce Bown

Drs John D L Brookes and Lucy V Hanlon

Suzie Brown OAM and the late Harvey Brown

Roger and Coll Buckle

Jill and Christopher Buckley

Ronald Burnstein

Daniel Bushaway and Tess Hamilton

Alexandra Champion de Crespigny ∞

John Chapman and Elisabeth Murphy

Kaye Cleary

Warren and Margaret Collins

Sue Dahn

Mrs Nola Daley

Panch Das and Laurel Young-Das

Michael Davies and Drina Staples

Rick and Sue Deering

John and Anne Duncan

Jane Edmanson OAM

Christopher R Fraser

Chris Freelance

Miles George

David I Gibbs AM and Susie O’Neill

Sonia Gilderdale

Dr Celia Godfrey

Dr Marged Goode

Fred and Alexandra Grimwade

Hilary Hall, in memory of Wilma Collie

David Hardy

Cathy Henry

Gwenda Henry

Anthony and Karen Ho

In Memory of Rosemary Hodgson

Anna Holdsworth

Rod Home

Lorraine Hook

Doug Hooley

Katherine Horwood

Penelope Hughes

Shyama Jayaswal

Basil and Rita Jenkins

Jane Jenkins

Wendy Johnson

Dr Gint Kalpokas and Dr Michael Upson

Angela Kayser

Drs Bruce and Natalie Kellett

Dr Anne Kennedy

Akira Kikkawa ∞

Dr Richard Knafelc and Mr Grevis Beard

Tim Knaggs

Dr Jerry Koliha and Marlene Krelle

Jane Kunstler

Ann Lahore

Wilson Lai and Anita Wong

Kerry Landman

Janet and Ross Lapworth

Rex Lau

Bryan Lawrence

Halina Lewenberg Charitable Foundation

Phil Lewis

Elizabeth H Loftus

David Loggia

Chris and Anna Long

Elena Lovu

Wayne McDonald and Kay Schroer

Andrea McCall

Lesley McMullin Foundation

Dr Eric Meadows

Ian Merrylees

Sylvia Miller

Ian Morrey and Geoffrey Minter

Susan Morgan ∞

Dr Anthony and Dr Anna Morton

Dr Judith S Nimmo

Rosemary O’Connor

George Pappas AO, in memory of Jillian Pappas

Bruce Parncutt AO

Ian Penboss

Peter Priest

Professor Charles Qin OAM and Kate Ritchie

Eli and Lorraine Raskin

Michael Riordan and Geoffrey Bush

Cathy Rogers OAM and Dr Peter Rogers AM

Guy Ross ☼

Marie Rowland

Liliane Rusek and Alexander Ushakoff

Viorica Samson

Martin and Susan Shirley

P Shore

Kieran Sladen

Janet and Alex Starr

Dr Peter Strickland

Bernard Sweeney

Russell Taylor and Tara Obeyesekere

Frank Tisher OAM and Dr Miriam Tisher

Margaret Toomey

Andrew and Penny Torok

Chris and Helen Trueman

Ann and Larry Turner

Dr Elsa Underhill and Professor

Malcolm Rimmer

Nicholas and Faith Vann

Jayde Walker ∞

Edward and Paddy White

Willcock Family

Dr Kelly and Dr Heathcote Wright

Demetrio Zema ∞

Anonymous (19)

OVERTURE PATRONS ($500+)

Margaret Abbey PSM

Vera Afanasyeva

Jane Allan and Mark Redmond

Jenny Anderson

Doris Au

Lyn Bailey

Robbie Barker

Anne M Bowden

Caroline Bowler

Stephen and Caroline Brain

Robert Bridgart

Miranda Brockman

Dr Robert Brook

Christine Brown

Elizabeth Brown

Phillip Brown

Patricia Buchanan

Marc Buchholz and Stephan Duchesne

Ian Carson AM

Jungpin Chen

Dr Catherine Cherry

Dr Hyein Ellen Cho

Alan and Wendy Chuck

Robert and Katherine Coco

Dr John Collins

Gregory Crew

Sue Cummings

Dr Catherine Duncan

Dr Matthew Dunn

Vivien and Jack Fajgenbaum

Brian Florence

Nadine Fogale

Elizabeth Foster

M C Friday

Simon Gaites

Nikki Gaskell

Lili Gearon

Dr Julia Gellatly

David and Geraldine Glenny

Hugo and Diane Goetze

The late George Hampel AM KC and Felicity Hampel AM SC

Dr Neville Hathaway

Geoff Hayes

Alison Heard

Noela Henderson

Dr Jennifer Henry

C M Herd Endowment

Carole and Kenneth Hinchliff

William Holder

Peter and Jenny Hordern

Gillian Horwood

Oliver Hutton and Weiyang Li

Rob Jackson

Ian Jamieson

Karen Johnson

Linda Jones

Leonora Kearney

Jennifer Kearney

John Keys

Lesley King

Dr Judith Kinnear

Katherine Kirby

Heather Law

Peter Letts

Sarah and Andrew Lindsay

Dr Helen MacLean

Sandra Masel, in memory of Leigh Masel

Janice Mayfield

Dr James McComish

Gail McKay

Jennifer McKean

Shirley A McKenzie

Richard McNeill

Alison Milne

Marie Misiurak

Professor Heather Mitchell

Joan Mullumby

Yoko Murakoshi

Rebecca-Kate Nayton

Adrian and Louise Nelson

Marian Neumann

Ed Newbigin

Valerie Newman

Amanda O’Brien

Brendan O’Donnell

Phil Parker

Sarah Patterson

The Hon Chris Pearce and Andrea Pearce

Jason Peart

William Ramirez

Geoffrey Ravenscroft

Ian Reddoch

Dr Christopher Rees

Fred and Patricia Russell

Carolyn Sanders

Julia Schlapp

Irene Sutton

Tom Sykes

Allison Taylor

Hugh and Elizabeth Taylor

Lily Tell

Serey Thir

Geoffrey Thomlinson

Mely Tjandra

Noel and Jenny Turnbull

Rosemary Warnock

Amanda Wasilewski

Amanda Watson

Michael Whishaw

Deborah and Dr Kevin Whithear OAM

Adrian Wigney

David Willersdorf AM and Linda Willersdorf

Charles and Jill Wright

Richard Ye

Anonymous (13)

MSO GUARDIANS

Jenny Anderson

David Angelovich

Lesley Bawden

Peter Berry and Amanda Quirk

Tarna Bibron

Joyce Bown

Patricia A Breslin

B J Brown

Jannie Brown

Jenny Brukner and the late John Brukner

Sarah Bullen

Georgie and Phil Burg

Peter A Caldwell

Peter Cameron and Craig Moffatt

Luci and Ron Chambers

Roger Chao

Sandra Dent

James Dipnall

Sophie E Dougall, in memory of Libby Harold

Alan Egan JP

Gunta Eglite

Marguerite Garnon-Williams

Dr Clem Gruen and Dr Rhyl Wade

Louis J Hamon OAM

Charles Hardman and Julianne Bambacas

Carol Hay

Dr Jennifer Henry

Graham Hogarth

Rod Home

David Horowicz

Lyndon Horsburgh

Katherine Horwood

Tony Howe

Lindsay Wynne Jacombs

Michael Christopher Scott Jacombs

John Jones

Merv Keehn and Sue Harlow

Pauline and David Lawton

Robyn and Maurice Lichter

Christopher Menz and Peter Rose

Dr Helen MacLean

Cameron Mowat

Laurence O’Keefe and Christopher James

David Orr

Matthew O’Sullivan

Rosia Pasteur

Kerryn Pratchett

Penny Rawlins

Margaret Riches

Anne Roussac-Hoyne and Neil Roussac

Michael Ryan and Wendy Mead

Anne Kieni Serpell and Andrew Serpell

Jennifer Shepherd

Suzette Sherazee

Professors Gabriela and George Stephenson

Pamela Swansson

Frank Tisher OAM and Dr Miriam Tisher

Mr and Mrs R P Trebilcock

Christina Helen Turner

Michael Ullmer AO

The Hon Rosemary Varty

Francis Vergona

Mr Steve Vertigan and Ms Yolande van Oosten

Tam Vu and Dr Cherilyn Tillman

Robert Weiss and Jacqueline Orian

Terry Wills Cooke OAM and the late

Marian Wills Cooke

Mark Young

Anonymous (18)

The MSO gratefully acknowledges the support of the following Estates

Norma Ruth Atwell

Angela Beagley

Barbara Bobbe

Michael Francois Boyt

Christine Mary Bridgart

Margaret Anne Brien

Ken Bullen

Deidre and Malcolm Carkeek

Elizabeth Ann Cousins

The Cuming Bequest

Margaret Davies

Blair Doig Dixon

Neilma Gantner

Angela Felicity Glover

The Hon Dr Alan Goldberg AO QC

Derek John Grantham

Delina Victoria Schembri-Hardy

Enid Florence Hookey

Gwen Hunt

Family and Friends of James Jacoby

Audrey Jenkins

Joan Jones

Pauline Marie Johnston

George and Grace Kass

Christine Mary Kellam

C P Kemp

Jennifer Selina Laurent

Sylvia Rose Lavelle

Dr Elizabeth Ann Lewis AM

Peter Forbes MacLaren

Joan Winsome Maslen

Lorraine Maxine Meldrum

Professor Andrew McCredie

Jean Moore

Joan P Robinson

Maxwell and Jill Schultz

Miss Sheila Scotter AM MBE

Marion A I H M Spence

Molly Stephens

Gwennyth St John

Halinka Tarczynska-Fiddian

Jennifer May Teague

Elisabeth Turner

Albert Henry Ullin

Cecilia Edith Umber

Jean Tweedie

Herta and Fred B Vogel

Diana Whitehead

Dorothy Wood

Joyce Winsome Woodroffe

The MSO honours the memory of Life Members

The late Marc Besen AC and the late Eva Besen AO

John Brockman OAM

The Hon Alan Goldberg AO QC

Harold Mitchell AC

Roger Riordan AM Ila Vanrenen

The MSO relies on the generosity of our community to help us enrich lives through music, foster artistic excellence, and reach new audiences. Thank you for your support.

♡ Chair Sponsors – supporting the beating heart of the MSO. 2025 Europe Tour Circle patrons –elevating the MSO on the world stage.

☼ First Nations Circle patrons –supporting First Nations artist development and performance initiatives.

♫ Commissioning Circle patrons –contributing to the evolution of our beloved art form.

∞ Future MSO patrons – the next generation of giving.

Our Partners

Government Partners

Suppor

MSO Staff

Richard Wigley

Chief Executive Officer

Justine Battistella

Executive Assistant (until February 2025)

ARTISTIC OPERATIONS

Guy Ross

Chief Commercial Officer (until July 2025)

Simonette Turner Director of Orchestra & Operations

Meg Bowker Orchestra Manager

Ffion Edwards

Orchestra Manager (from June 2025)

Callum Moncrieff Head of Operations

Brenton Burley

Production Manager (until November 2025)

Renn Picard

Production Coordinator

Andrew Robinson

Production Coordinator

Nicholas Cooper Operations Coordinator (from May 2025)

Andrew Moore Director of Programming (until March 2025)

Warren Trevelyan-Jones Chorus Director

Katharine Bartholomeusz-Plows Head of Artistic Planning

Andrew Groch

Artistic Planning Manager (until April 2025)

Keturah Haisman

Artistic & Engagement Manager

Veronika Reeves

Artistic Administrator

Julia Potter

Artistic Coordinator (from May 2025)

Stephen McAllan

Artist Liaison (until February 2025)

Jennifer Collins

Principal Librarian

Glynn Davies

Orchestra Librarian (from June 2025)

Megan Baker

Chorus & Library Administrator

Nicholas Bochner

Head of Learning & Engagement

Erica Dawkins

Learning & Engagement Lead

Fergus Inder

Jams Program Coordinator

Erika Noguchi

Executive Producer, MSO Presents

Kate Weston

Associate Producer, MSO Presents (July-December 2025)

CASUAL PRODUCTION STAFF

Anita, Aurora, Caitlin, Campbell, Elizabeth, Jamie, Jenny, Jess, Lauren, Lewis, Lindsay, Lucca, Manuel, Matthew, Matthieu, Max, Millie, Ned, Owen, Steven, Zac

DEVELOPMENT & REACH

Suzanne Dembo

Chief Operating Officer

Amy Jackett

Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer (from September 2025)

Caroline Buckley

Head of Strategic Priorities

Christina Chiam

Head of Development

Charlotte Crocker

Philanthropy Programs Lead

Catherine Hempenstall

Grants & Reporting Lead (until September 2025)

Isobel Lake

Grants & Reporting Lead (from October 2025)

Keith Clancy

Donor Liaison

Nellie McLean

Head of Partnerships

Nina Dubecki

Events & Partnerships Lead

Jayde Walker

Director of Brand & Communications

Phil Paschke

Senior Manager, Content & Digital

Samantha Meuleman

Digital Content Lead

Prue Bassett

Publicity Manager

Leah Toyne

Programs Administrator

Beckie Peel

Social Media Coordinator (from October 2025)

Dylan Stewart

Director of Marketing & Sales

Shannon Toyne

Head of Marketing & Sales

Sally Hern

Senior Manager, Campaign Marketing

Claudia Biaggini

Senior Marketing Coordinator

Alison Kearney

Customer Experience Manager

Nicole Rees

CRM & insights Manager

Sam Harvey

CRM & Data Specialist

Marta Arquero

Ticketing & Customer Experience Coordinator

BOX OFFICE ATTENDANTS

Angela, Ashley, Bec, Bradd, Christine, Emil, Grace, Jessica, Josh, Kara, Kez, Leah, Lucy, Maeve, Sasha, Stephanie

FINANCE & PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Sharon Li

Chief Financial Officer (until March 2025)

Alistair Mytton

Interim Chief Financial Officer (from March 2025)

Sonia Yakub

Senior Management Accountant (from June 2025)

Lynn Tejano

Financial Accountant (until October 2025)

Laura Estupiñan Accountant

Lilian Karidza

Assistant Accountant

Matthew Bagi

Project Officer

Alex Fitzgerald

People and Culture Manager (until April 2025)

Holly Wighton

People & Culture Lead (from February 2025)

Aileen Eyou

People & Culture Administration Officer

Our Board

Edgar Myer Chair

Member of:

MSO Finance Committee

MSO Foundation Committee

MSO Governance Committee

MSO Music Hub Committee

Born and raised in Melbourne, Edgar Myer brings a broad range of skills and experiences to the role of MSO Chair. As Investment Director at Yulgilbar Group of Companies, a family office that invests across various asset classes and operating businesses, Edgar manages a range of investment and legal related matters.

Before moving into the world of private investment management, Edgar qualified as a solicitor and practiced at Gilbert + Tobin in Sydney, which included a secondment to Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York City, where he worked on a variety of transactions, investigations, and disputes over several years. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Edgar trained as an anthropologist, conducting fieldwork in Eastern Indonesia.

In addition to his role on the MSO Board, Edgar serves as a director of The Aranday Foundation, as a member of the Asialink Advisory Council, and as a member of The Myer Foundation’s Kenneth Myer Innovation Fellowships Committee. Previously, he was Chair of CAUSINDY, the Conference of Australian and Indonesian Youth, and has undertaken several observer programs within The Myer Foundation. Mr Myer is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Appointed 17 March 2023

Appointed Chair 10 February 2025

Martin Foley

Co-Deputy Chair

Member of:

MSO Governance Committee

As a former Minister in the Victorian Parliament across a range of portfolios, including the Creative Industries, Martin Foley brings a background of working with government, community and stakeholders in the Arts and Cultural communities. He worked closely with key Major Performing Arts organisations over the time he was in Government, including responding to the challenges of Covid 19 pandemic.

Martin sits on several other arts organisations’ Boards, and chairs Alfred Health. He has a Master of Commerce from the University of Melbourne. He is also working with Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences approach to Mental Health reform. Martin longs to see a St Kilda Premiership before he dies.

Appointed 22 March 2023

Appointed Co-Deputy Chair 26 August 2024

Farrel Meltzer

Co-Deputy Chair

Chair MSO Development Committee

Member of:

MSO Governance Committee

Farrel Meltzer founded Wingate and Wingate Capital, the predecessor of Fancourt Capital Group in 2004 after a successful career as an investment banker, including positions as head of ANZ Private Bank and Group Managing Director of Investec Bank (Australia) Ltd.

Recognised as one of Australia’s outstanding specialised financial service innovators and business builders, Farrel’s experience spans property investment and financing, corporate and consumer finance, private credit, private equity, and listed equities.

Farrel serves on several boards, investment and risk management committees and is an advisor to and confidant of many of Australia’s substantial private investment groups and families. He is a Chartered Accountant and holds a B.Com, B.Acc (cum laude) and Adv Dip Banking (cum laude). Farrel is active in community affairs and a former board member of Jewish Care Victoria and the Jewish Museum of Australia Foundation.

Appointed 22 November 2022

Appointed Co-Deputy Chair 31 October 2024

Shane Buggle

Director

Chair MSO Finance Committee

Member of:

MSO Music Hub Committee

Shane Buggle has more than 35 years’ experience in the finance sector, spending 25 years at ANZ in a variety of roles including Chief Financial Officer, and has also held senior roles at Zurich Financial Services and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

He is currently a director and chair of the Audit Committees at BUPA ANZ companies and Heartland Bank Australia Limited.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Dublin, and an honorary doctorate, LL.D, from Monash University. He is a fellow of the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Shane was a member of Council of Monash University from 2007 to 2018 and was a Deputy Chancellor of Monash University from 2015 to 2018.

Appointed 18 August 2021

Tony Grybowski Director

Member of:

MSO Finance Committee

Tony Grybowski is one of Australia’s most experienced and respected arts leaders, with over 35 years in senior roles across cultural institutions and government.

He was CEO of the Australia Council for the Arts (2013–2018), where he led major structural reform, launched a national strategy, and oversaw over $220 million in annual funding.

Earlier roles included executive leadership at Musica Viva, the Australian Youth Orchestra, Arts Victoria, and the Major Performing Arts Board.

Tony now advises cultural organisations nationally on governance, strategy, and leadership, and serves on the Academic Board of SAE University College.

He is a trained musician.

Appointed 1 July 2025

Lorraine Hook

Director (Employee-Elected)

Member of:

MSO Finance Committee

MSO Development Committee

MSO Artistic Committee

Violinist Lorraine Hook joined the MSO in 1986 after studying in Melbourne, Germany, and London, and plays in the First Violin Section. Lorraine is actively involved in Chamber Music including performing in Tokyo in 2019. She enjoys teaching privately, has tutored for the Melbourne and Australian Youth Orchestras, and was an MSO mentor for the Master of Music Orchestral Performance at Melbourne University Conservatorium of Music.

Lorraine’s orchestral experience includes the Royal Philharmonic, City of London Sinfonia, London Festival Orchestra, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Academy of Melbourne, and Australia Pro Arte.

Lorraine is Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).

Appointed 27 February 2019

Chris Howlett Director

Member of:

MSO Artistic Committee

Chris Howlett is an award-winning cellist, arts leader, and festival director with over a decade of experience across artistic programming, governance, and arts entrepreneurship.

He served on the board of 3MBS Fine Music Melbourne for eight years, including as Chair and Acting GM, overseeing a significant turnaround in financial and organisational performance.

Chris is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of the Australian Digital Concert Hall and Founder of two successful chamber music festivals. His ventures have raised millions for Australian musicians, engaged tens of thousands of audiences, and demonstrated a rare combination of artistic depth and commercial acumen.

Appointed 1 July 2025

Joel McGuinness Director

Member of:

MSO Music Hub Committee

Joel McGuinness is a senior cultural executive with over 15 years’ leadership experience across major arts organisations and public institutions.

He is currently Director, Experience at State Library Victoria and was previously CEO and Creative Director of Geelong Arts Centre, where he delivered over $200 million in capital projects and led major organisational transformation.

A former theatre artist and festival founder, Joel has worked nationally across venue management, cultural policy, philanthropy, and community engagement.

He holds a Master of Fine Arts (Cultural Leadership) from NIDA and a Bachelor of Arts (Theatre) from WAAPA; and has served on multiple boards and advisory committees.

Appointed 1 July 2025

Gary McPherson Director

Chair MSO Artistic Committee

Gary McPherson is the Ormond Professor of Music at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, the University of Melbourne.

Trained at the universities of Sydney and Indiana he has held professorial positions in the United States, Hong Kong, and Australia.

A former President of the Australian and International Societies for Music Education he has published more than 250 academic publications and produced 14 books through Oxford University Press.

Gary served as Director of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music from 2009 to 2019 and currently teaches and undertakes research on a range of issues related to music performance science and music psychology.

In 2021 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Lund University (Sweden) for his contribution to music and music research internationally.

Appointed 18 August 2021

Lisa Mitchell Director

Member of:

MSO Development Committee

Lisa Mitchell is a senior philanthropic leader and marketing specialist with over 25 years’ experience across the arts, higher education, and media sectors.

Currently Senior Director of Development at Monash University, Lisa played a pivotal role in delivering the institution’s landmark $1 billion fundraising campaign.

She was formerly Director of Marketing and Development at the MSO, where she helped corporatise the organisation and significantly advanced its international touring, audience growth, and philanthropy. Lisa brings deep expertise in fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and brand strategy, with a personal and professional commitment to the performing arts and cultural leadership.

Appointed 1 July 2025

Meredith Schilling SC

Director

Member of:

MSO Governance Committee

Meredith Schilling SC is a leading commercial barrister at the Victorian Bar, appointed Senior Counsel in 2024, with extensive experience in taxation, administrative and commercial law.

Prior to law, she had a 17-year career as a professional classical singer and held senior fundraising and administrative roles with major UK orchestras, including the London Sinfonietta and London Philharmonic Orchestra.

She has served in governance roles across legal and arts committees and has led major pro bono and ethics initiatives.

Her combined background in music and law positions her uniquely to contribute across MSO’s artistic, philanthropic, and governance domains.

Appointed 1 July 2025

Mary Waldron Director

Chair MSO Governance Committee

Member of:

MSO Finance Committee

Mary Waldron previously served in Chair and Directorship roles at the Melbourne Recital Centre, Opera Australia, Macfarlane Burnet Institute for Medical Research and Public Health, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, The Australian-Ireland Fund, and the Centre for Ethical Leadership advisory board.

She is a current non-Executive Director and Chair of Audit, Risk and Compliance of Zurich Australia and NZ, Chair of Audit and Finance at Crown Melbourne Limited, Chair of the Risk committee of The Bank of Queensland, and Chair of Horizon Nexus Partners Advisory Board.

Mary has more than 35 years’ experience providing audit, risk, and professional services to Australian and Global Companies, in addition to Global executive leadership roles with deep operational, risk management and technology experience. She is a former Partner of PwC, EY and Andersen and held senior leadership roles, her last executive role was as Global Chief Risk Officer at PwC.

She is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Chief Executive Women and is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, and Chartered Accountants Ireland. She holds a Bachelor of Economics and Social Studies from Trinity College Dublin and is a Fellow of the Vincent Fairfax Centre for Ethical Leadership.

Appointed 5 April 2023

Governance Statement

This statement outlines the MSO’s corporate governance practices and compliance in line with Australia Council for the Arts’ Five Essential Governance Principles for Arts Organisations, authored by Dr Judith S. MacCormick and Bruce Rolph, published by the Australia Council for the Arts, January 2021.

To ensure sound governance of the organisation, the MSO Board works to:

1. Ensure alignment of actions and decisions towards delivering on the organisation’s mission, while demonstrating its values.

2. Contribute to the development of a sound strategic plan to deliver on the vision and identified outcomes.

3. Monitor and review activities and the organisation’s financial position and remunerate fairly and responsibly.

4. Manage risk and compliance, along with ensuring reporting requirements are met.

5. Engage with stakeholders and instil the right organisational culture.

In 2025, the primary role of the Board of Directors was to guide the implementation of the MSO’s strategic objectives to ensure reserves are suitably replenished and a long term, financially sustainable future for the Orchestra can be secured.

Key activities undertaken by the Board in 2025 included:

• The ongoing development of governance practices including organisational and risk management practices.

• Oversight of the artistic program and the 2025 UK & Europe Tour.

• Oversight of the Board renewal and replenishment process to ensure a board best positioned to meet the challenges of the organisation whilst ensuring a diverse range of skills are represented.

• Oversight of the wellbeing of MSO’s people and the Orchestra’s financial position.

• Oversight of fundraising strategy including development opportunities and major philanthropic events.

The MSO also works to reflect the communities with whom it engages. In establishing measurable objectives for achieving diversity in the areas of, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, disability and cultural background, the MSO will be able to assess and report on its progress and achievements.

The MSO sets out an expectation that directors are deeply connected to the mission of the organisation, and as a result will participate in and support the Company’s operations, for example as a subscriber and by regular attendance at concerts and special events. Furthermore, directors have represented the MSO at numerous events during the year.

MSO directors’ positions are on an honorary basis, and non-executive directors and the Company Secretary do not receive remuneration for their roles as directors of the Company. Board members also make philanthropic gifts.

Throughout the year, the Board delegates the management of the organisation to the CEO and Senior Management team, and governs each of the MSO’s significant business streams, supported by Board subcommittees.

Board Sub-Committees

Membership of the sub-committees includes Board members, Senior Management and external representatives as required. The Chair of each subcommittee acts as a Board interface by representing the Board and reporting back at full Board meetings.

The current sub-committee structure includes six subcommittees, each chaired by a different Board member, with the following areas of responsibility:

1. Governance Committee

– Chair, Mary Waldron

• Overall Governance

• Board recruitment, division of roles and performance

• Succession planning

• CEO assessment and compensation

2. Finance Committee

– Chair, Shane Buggle

• Integrity of financial statements and reporting

• Engagement with the external auditors

• Reviewing internal controls and risk management

• Reviewing compliance with regulatory and legal requirements

• Reviewing ticket sales, marketing spend, cost and annual budget

3. Development Committee (formerly Foundation Committee)

– Chair, Farrel Meltzer

• Contributed revenue streams

• The structure of MSO Development Committee

• Development portfolios: Philanthropy, Corporate Sponsorship, Trusts, and Foundations

• Fundraising campaigns

The purpose of the Development Committee is to raise and accumulate capital to ensure the long-term viability and financial security of the MSO, and to fund special initiatives.

4. Artistic Committee (formerly Learning & Engagement Committee)

– Chair, Gary McPherson

• Strategy and assessment of effective programs and policies concerning:

• performance quality and artistic development

• audience development and engagement

• community outreach and education

• diversity, equity and inclusion (artistic lens)

• strategy opportunities and future artistic directions

• Champion for Music Education – advocacy

5. Music Hub Committee

– Chair, Margaret Jackson AC (to June 2025) and Martin Foley

The medium-term purposes of the Committee are to oversee the fundraising strategy and the development of the Music Hub to provide a long-term home for the MSO.

6. Litigation Committee

– Chair, Meredith Schilling SC

The role of the Litigation Committee is to provide oversight and management of Federal Court litigation brought by Mr Jayson Gillham against the MSO.

External Representatives

The MSO Board of Directors wish to acknowledge the following external representatives for the MSO Board subcommittees for their significant contribution in 2025:

Randal Williams (Company Secretary)

Cate Corbet (Board Observer)

Governance Committee:

Carolyn Baker

Artistic Committee:

The Hon Chris Pearce MP

Dr Hieu Pham

Simon Warrender OAM

Finance Committee:

Caroline Stuart

Development Committee: Tabitha Lovett

Music Hub Committee:

Carolyn Baker

David Li AM (Chair Emeritus)

Board Skills

A summary of Board skills, which includes the mix of professional competencies, including those trained as classical musicians, and diversity of its membership, is updated with each Board appointment. Currently, the MSO Board includes directors with a range of skills including:

• Not-For-Profit

• Arts Management

• Finance, Accounting and Investment

• Business and Commercial Experience (Public Companies and Small Business)

• Law

• Government Relations

• Marketing

• Governance

• Music and Cultural Industries

• Sustainability

• Fundraising

• IT and Digital

• Risk Management and Compliance

An MSO employee-elected director is also included on the Board, elected for a three-year term.

Internal Assessment

The following MSO Management sub-committees are charged with the responsibility of meeting throughout the year to oversee the MSO’s internal review and selfassessment processes:

1. MSO Artistic Committee

The MSO Artistic Committee is comprised of the Director of Orchestra & Operations, Head of Artistic Planning, Chief Operating Officer and management representatives, the Chief Conductor, Concertmaster(s), and elected musicians. Its main purpose is to review:

• All performances including soloists, conductors, and programming choices.

• Orchestral performance standards.

• Annual repertoire and season plans.

2. Two MSO Consultative Committees

Two MSO Consultative Committees for musicians and administrative staff. The committees’ roles include the discussion of day-today MSO operations as they relate to the Musicians and Staff Enterprise Agreements.

• The Musicians Consultative Committee consists of members of the Players’ Committee and Players’ Executive, plus management representatives including the Director of Orchestra & Operations.

• The Staff Consultative Committee includes representatives from across administrative Staff, including the Chief Operating Officer.

3. MSO Chorus Committee

The MSO Chorus Committee, made up of eight singers, management representatives, and the Director of Programming, meets to discuss engagement opportunities for the Chorus, programming and issues of artistic quality and performance standards.

4. Occupational Health and Safety Committee

The Occupational Health and Safety Committee consists of two elected Health and Safety representatives from the Orchestra, plus the Head of Operations and Director of Orchestra & Operations, and representatives from across the Orchestra, Staff and Chorus. The committee monitors standards of occupational health, safety and rehabilitation and initiates plans and procedures with a view to minimising the effects of workplace hazards. The MSO continues to work diligently to maintain a formal and transparent procedure for managing the artistic proficiency of its orchestral musicians. This process continues to be refined.

2025 Board and Sub-Committee Meetings*

* The Board and certain sub-committees also held meetings outside of the normal Board calendar schedule as needed to respond to strategic issues as they arose.

Auditor’s

independence

declaration to the directors of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Pty Limited

In relation to our audit of the financial report of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Pty Limited for the financial year ended 31 December 202 5, and in accordance with the requirements of Subdivision 60-C of the Australian Charities and Not -for-profits Commission Act 2012 , to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:

a. No contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of any applicable code of professional conduct; and

b. No non-audit services provided that contravene any applicable code of professional conduct.

Ernst & Young Christopher Tiedemann Partner

30 April 2026

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Pty Limited

Opinion

We have audited the financial report of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Pty Limited (the Company), which comprises the statement of financial position as at 31 December 202 5, the statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, notes to the financial statements, including material accounting policy information , and the directors’ declaration.

In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of the Company is in accordance with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 , including:

a. G iving a true and fair view of the Company ’s financial position as at 31 December 2025 and of its financial performance for the year ended on that date; and

b. Complying with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulations 2022

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board ’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Information

other than the financial report and auditor’s report thereon

The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information is the directors ’ report accompanying the financial report.

Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial report or our knowledge obtained in the audit o r otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

Responsibilities of the directors for the financial report

The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the Australian Charities and Not -for-profits Commission Act 2012 and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the Company ’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters relating to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor ’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstateme nts can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report.

As part of an audit in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

► Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis fo r our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

► Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control.

► Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the directors.

► Conclude on the appropriateness of the directors ’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company ’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor ’s report to the related disclosures in the financial report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our o pinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor ’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as a going concern.

► Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial report, including the disclosures, and whether the financial report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

We communicate with the directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

Ernst & Young Christopher Tiedemann Partner

Melbourne 30 April 2026

ABN: 47 078 925 658