


In a career spanning five decades, French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet has earned a reputation as one of the world’s finest musicians. Seamlessly crossing barriers between musical genres and artforms, his performances of jazz, opera and more have led to collaborations in film, fashion and visual art.
But the beating heart of this rich musical life has always been French classical music – and for a pianist, it doesn’t get more foundational than the Préludes by Claude Debussy. Across 24 short pieces, Debussy conjures a delicious array of moods and musical shades to create 24 self-contained universes. Intensely evocative. Immediately captivating.
Gramophone magazine described Thibaudet’s recording of these works as ‘a cornucopia of delights’, and in this very special recital at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall you will be enchanted. Lose yourself in the dreamlike flow of ‘The Girl with the Flaxen Hair’ or the rich harmonies of ‘The Sunken Cathedral’. And the flamenco-inspired melodies of ‘La puerta del Vino’ feel like a postcard from Spain.
From snow-softened footsteps to bells tolling underwater, this is a program of tantalising vignettes painted with consummate skill by a master interpreter of Debussy. Don’t miss it.
23rd February, 2026
23rd February, 2026

Step-free access with lifts and wheelchair seating, accessible bathrooms across multiple levels, assistive listening, captioned and audio-described performances, and registered service animals are welcome throughout the Sydney Opera House.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Sydney Opera House is short six-minute walk from Circular Quay, with frequent trains, buses and ferries. An accessible shuttle also operates between Circular Quay and the venue for those who require assistance.
BY BICYCLE: Bike parking is available beneath the Monumental Steps.
BY CAR: Parking is available at Wilson Parking Sydney Opera House Car Park, open 24/7 with undercover access to the Lower Concourse. Accessible parking spaces are also available on site.
Piano: Jean-Yves Thibaudet
PROGRAM
DEBUSSY Préludes: Book I & II
Unfortunately, tickets for this event are no longer available.
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