Stephen Hough wears a pinstripe shirt as his eyes are closed playing the piano in front of the violin section of an orchestra

Stephen Hough performs Mendelssohn

4 – 7 June 2025

In the Concert Hall

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Classical Music

Sir Stephen Hough is one of the world’s great pianists, and since his debut with the Sydney Symphony more than 30 years ago he has been a regular visitor.

Superb flow, balance and emphasis.

Sydney Morning Herald on Principal Guest Conductor Sir Donald Runnicles

Useful information:

Captivating masterpieces

In this concert Sir Stephen Hough applies his considerable talents to Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No.1: arresting and delicate all at once, this sparkling piece will captivate from the start, with some moments that leave you breathless and others full of rhythmic delight. 

Sydney Symphony Orchestra Principal Guest Conductor Sir Donald Runnicles is another frequent collaborator and old friend – not just of the Orchestra’s but of Hough’s as well, making them the perfect pair to lead this adventure to the heart of the Romantic era. 

Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides Overture sets the tone for this immersive concert. Full of light and shade, it will transport you to the rugged coastline of Scotland. Brahms’ Third Symphony was written at the height of his powers, launching with a brass salvo before setting off into a kaleidoscope of orchestral colours. 

Runnicles is widely celebrated for the ‘superb flow, balance and emphasis’ (Sydney Morning Herald) that he brings to Brahms’ symphonies, and also for his advocacy of the works of German composer Detlev Glanert, whose Hidden Image was written as a partner to Brahms’ Third. Runnicles led its world premiere in June 2024, and here gives its first Australian performances.

Discover the incredible places Romantic music can take you with this hugely entertaining concert.

Presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Programme

MENDELSSOHN The Hebrides
MENDELSSOHN Piano Concerto No.1
Detlev GLANERT Hidden Image: Contrafactum with Brahms
BRAHMS Symphony No.3

Artist information

DONALD RUNNICLES conductor
STEPHEN HOUGH piano

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