The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Joins as Classical Music Partner
Published on 14 August 2025
MEDIA RELEASE
14 August 2025
The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Joins Frankston Arts Centre as Classical Music Partner for 2026.
Frankston Arts Centre is delighted to announce the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) as its Classical Music Partner for 2026. This exciting new partnership will see the MSO present three unforgettable concerts for local audiences next year. Building on its long-standing relationship with Frankston Arts Centre — where its annual performances consistently draw sell-out crowds — the MSO’s expanded season promises to be a highlight of the 2026 program.
Mark your calendars for these special performances:
- Friday 27 February – Strauss and Mozart
The MSO opens its 2026 Frankston season with Mozart’s Flute Concerto, with Chief Conductor Jaime Martín as director and soloist (flute), as well as Strauss’ witty Le bourgeois gentilhomme, and Bach’s Suite in D Major.
- Friday 1 May – Storm and Serenity: Haydyn, Mozart and Beethoven
The MSO’s Storm & Serenity, led by early music specialist Chad Kelly, includes C.P.E. Bach, Haydn, Locke, Beethoven and Mozart’s Horn Concerto No.2 with soloist Nicolas Fleury.
- Friday 9 October – Christian Li plays Brahms
The MSO’s season finale features MSO Young Artist in Association, and Melbourne-raised rising star Christian Li performing Brahms’ Violin Concerto alongside Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite, and Andrée’s rarely heard Andante quasi recitativo, conducted by Tianyi Liu.
Australia’s pre-eminent orchestra, the MSO is renowned for its exceptional musicianship and rich musical heritage. In 2026, it will bring the power and beauty of orchestral music to the heart of Frankston, offering audiences an inspiring program of classical masterpieces and exciting new discoveries.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Chief Conductor Jaime Martín and the outstanding guest artists to our stage in 2026,” said Frankston City Cr David Asker. “This partnership brings exceptional live music to our community and reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class cultural experiences for all.”
“Building on the success of our previous concerts in Frankston, we’re delighted to launch our first-ever three-concert series at the FAC,” added MSO CEO Richard Wigley. “Through our new partnerships with the FAC and McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery, announced in June, we’re deepening our connection with the region and creating more opportunities for local audiences to experience wonderful programs and artists—including our Chief Conductor Jaime Martín. It’s part of the MSO’s 120-year commitment to sharing the remarkable talents of our Orchestra and guest artists with more music lovers across Melbourne and Victoria, reaching beyond the city centre into suburban and regional communities.”
Tickets:
An exclusive MSO Classical Series 3-Show Package will go on sale from 8pm on 13 August 2025, giving audiences the chance to secure their seats for the full season of MSO performances at Frankston Arts Centre. Remaining single tickets will be released on 30 October 2025.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Australia’s premier orchestra — and some of the world’s leading conductors — right here in Frankston.
BOOK NOW
For more information and ticket details, visit the FAC.com.au.