Next date: Sunday, 27 September 2026 | 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM
Celebrate the boldness and energy of youth when Associate Conductor Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith leads the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra in Mendelssohn’s Lobgesang (Hymn of Praise), alongside a trio of exuberant Australian works. Hear musical history in the making as the orchestra unveils the winner of the 2026 Young Composer Award, paired with a joyous work, Flight, by the 2017 award-winner and rising star composer Ella Macens. The wistful third movement from Miloslav Pěnička’s Gemini Suite, Up in the Fluffy Clouds, delighted audiences at The Concourse in 2025.
This year, by popular demand, the orchestra performs the world premiere of the Gemini Suite in full, before the Willoughby Symphony Choir joins the orchestra to bring this concert to an uplifting close with Mendelssohn’s stunning Lobgesang, written in 1840 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the invention of Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press. Don’t miss this vibrant showcase of youth and innovation.
Program subject to change.
Ella Macens Flight
Miloslav Pěnička Gemini Suite
Winner of the 2026 Young Composer Award
Mendelssohn Lobgesang (Hymn of Praise)
Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith Associate Conductor
Willoughby Symphony Choir
The Young Composer Award is generously supported by Mark Wakely in memory of Steven Alward.
More details to be announced regarding entries for the 2026 Young Composer Award. For enquiries regarding the Award, please email WSO@Willoughby.nsw.gov.au.
The Concourse Concert Hall, 409 Victoria Ave, Chatswood, 2067, View Map
409 Victoria Ave , Chatswood 2067
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Adult $88Child (under 16) $19Concession $78Music Family (1 adult, child under attends free) $88Youth (under 35) $35Groups 10+ $60Groups 20+ $58
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To ensure an enjoyable experience for all patrons, we recommend children be aged 5 or older to attend.