Simone Young conducts Britten & Vaughan Williams presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra tickets

Vaughan Williams’ Sixth Symphony opens in a blaze of energy. Sharp rhythms, bold brass and relentless momentum.

Written in the aftermath of the Second World War, it burns with unrest. The final movement dissolves into a ghostlike hush that drifts toward silence and stays with you long after. After acclaimed performances of his Eighth and Third symphonies in recent seasons, Simone Young continues her exploration of these touching works.

Britten’s Violin Concerto was written on the edge of war, full of unease and astonishing beauty. Its aching opening theme, martial second movement and spiralling cadenza combine with striking emotional power. The 'brilliant’ (New York Times) Dutch violinist Simone Lamsma is our soloist, her commanding presence brings searing clarity to every note. 

Saturday’s concert opens with Peter Sculthorpe’s Sun Music III, a uniquely Australian composition with shimmering textures that evoke ancient ritual and vast landscapes. One of the works that Simone Young conducted in her Sydney Symphony debut 30 years ago, this is a moment to celebrate our deep and rich musical connection with our Chief Conductor.