Artistic Director's message

I am delighted to share with you the Willoughby Symphony’s exuberant 2025 concert season and am thrilled, on behalf of the musicians of your orchestra, to invite you to join us for a sensational year of music in our exquisite home at the Concert Hall of The Concourse.

The Willoughby Symphony brings together people from all walks of life through its simple yet bold mission – to make wonderful music that inspires and uplifts our community. Whether you are involved as a player, singer, lifetime subscriber or first-time audience member, every Willoughby Symphony concert is a musical experience like no other.

Our 2025 journey begins with one of Beethoven’s most remarkable creations, his ‘Triple’ Concerto. We navigate exciting landscapes along the Moldau river, and legendary flute player Jane Rutter joins us for a stunning version of Vaughan Williams’ Lark Ascending. The principal trombone of the Berlin Philharmonic, Jonathon Ramsay performs a concerto by Nino Rota, better known as the composer of The Godfather, and we conclude our year with Mahler’s most thrilling symphonic masterpiece. Our magnificent Willoughby Symphony Choir joins us for a number of riveting collaborations, none more inspiring than Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

After her glorious performance of Korngold’s Violin Concerto in 2023, my wife Rosa Donata Milton returns for a special Gala concert, A Night at the Oscars, performing music from Schindler’s List and Hollywood blockbusters. Our last film concert sold out within weeks, so please don’t miss the opportunity to secure tickets!

Whether you want to find serenity in a solo violin or be invigorated by a symphony resplendent with soloists and choir, the Willoughby Symphony makes music for you. I am honoured to invite you to join us in 2025 to experience the sublime beauty and power of music in our most exciting adventure ever!

Dr Nicholas Milton AM
Chief Conductor and Artistic Director