Simone Young stands with arms to the side in front of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra with a full choir insider the Concert Hall

Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony with Simone Young

26 – 29 November 2025

In the Concert Hall

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Classical Music

The ‘Ode to Joy’, the finale of Beethoven’s irrepressible Ninth Symphony, is one of the most famous melodies ever written.

An Ode to Joy

It’s a special moment in music that makes us feel connected to each other, and for over 200 years it has engulfed us in its boundless energy. When you hear it live, the power of so many triumphant voices is astonishing.

Chief Conductor Simone Young is world-renowned for her interpretation of the great symphonies and draws everything out of this life-affirming masterpiece, celebrating Beethoven’s vision of universal harmony through the power of music with a superb, all-Australasian quartet of singers. 

Demonstrating the continued power of Beethoven's profoundly human message, acclaimed First Nations composer William Barton has composed a new piece as a companion to this timeless symphony. Inspired by the themes in Beethoven’s work, Barton’s piece will provide a fresh, contemporary and uniquely Australian perspective.

With ageless exuberance and exciting new music, this is a concert experience that will leave you glowing with life. What better way to conclude an extraordinary season of unforgettable music.

Presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Programme

William BARTON New commission
BEETHOVEN Symphony No.9, Choral

Artist information

SIMONE YOUNG conductor
SAMANTHA CLARKE soprano 
DEBORAH HUMBLE mezzo-soprano
SIMON O'NEILL tenor
SAMUEL DUNDAS bass 
SYDNEY PHILHARMONIA CHOIRS

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