The Tallis Scholars & The Royal Organist: Westminster Abbey Emeritus Organist James O’Donnell

Sydney — Tuesday 1 April 2025

Two esteemed classical music acts will transform the world-famous Concert Hall this year: a captivating organ recital by globally celebrated concert organist James O'Donnell on 29 July, and a mesmerising program by the renowned early vocal music masters The Tallis Scholars on 12 October.}

Sydney Opera House Director of Programming, Brenna Hobson, said: “There’s no better place to experience the spine-tingling beauty of centuries-old choral music than at one of the most breathtaking venues in the world. And to witness the rarely used, monumental grand organ – an intrinsic part of the building’s architecture – be brought to life by the former Organist of Westminster Abbey, the wonderful James O'Donnell, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’m excited to see these two revered musical acts take full advantage of the sweeping majesty of the renewed Concert Hall, performing some of the most transcendent works ever composed.”

Internationally acclaimed James O'Donnell was the Organist and Master of Choristers at Westminster Abbey for 23 years, responsible for the music at numerous significant occasions, from royal weddings to the state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. O’Donnell will present a rare organ recital on the Opera House’s magnificent Grand Organ, the world’s largest known mechanical action pipe organ. Standing 15 meters tall and featuring 10,244 pipes, its immense power and versatility, ranging from bold tones to delicate subtleties, will be on full display under O'Donnell’s expert touch. His repertoire will span 17th-century masterpieces to contemporary works.

James O’Donnell said: “I am hugely excited at the prospect of playing an organ concert in the spectacular setting of Sydney Opera House. While this will be my debut at the House as a player, in 2007 I conducted Westminster Abbey Choir in two concerts in the Concert Hall, so I am familiar with the superb hall and magnificent organ. Please come to hear me put it through its paces in a varied programme of great organ music.”

Marking 25 years since their last performance at the Opera House, the award-winning British vocal ensemble The Tallis Scholars return with a transcendent program inspired by the timeless beauty of Gregorian chant. The program will journey through the visionary chants of 12th-century abbess Hildegard von Bingen to the shimmering polyphony of Renaissance masters like Josquin des Prez and Obrecht, alongside the spiritual minimalism of contemporary composer Arvo Pärt. Founded in 1973 by Peter Phillips, the ensemble is renowned for its pure, exquisite a cappella performances and pioneering role in the early music revival, with a lasting influence on the global movement of sacred choral music from medieval to contemporary.

Founder of Tallis Scholars, Peter Phillips, said: “The Tallis Scholars first sang in the Sydney Opera House in 1985, 40 years ago, which for us young people in those days was the most exciting thing that had ever happened to us. We sang there five times more after that, the last time in 2000, now 25 years ago. I expect the same excitement to be palpable this October.”