About
The Willoughby Symphony Orchestra (WSO) is a world-class ensemble with deep roots in the community. Established in 1965 and proudly managed by Willoughby City Council, the WSO is one of Australia’s oldest and most celebrated orchestras, enriching the life of Willoughby with exceptional music-making for over 50 years. A cultural landmark on Sydney’s North Shore, the WSO has earned a reputation for supporting the careers of some of Australia’s most exciting emerging musicians and composers.
Performing in its home in the acoustically excellent Concert Hall of The Concourse, Chatswood, the WSO is renowned for its outstanding annual concert series. The series encompasses beloved orchestral classics, innovative music presentation styles, and family-oriented productions that engage and delight audiences of all ages. The WSO’s prestigious Young Composer Award was established by WSO in 2004 and celebrates 20 years bringing the best new music to Willoughby audiences in 2024. In partnership with the Willoughby Symphony Choir, the WSO showcases thrilling large-scale choral works alongside orchestral masterpieces.
Featuring up to 80 of Sydney’s finest musicians on stage, the orchestra delivers a spectacular subscription series encompassing a remarkable spectrum of glorious symphonic repertoire coupled with Australia’s most outstanding guest artists, and popular classics that inspire and uplift the community.
The WSO also presents Mini Maestros, a series of fun concerts introducing young people to the joy of classical music, and its Lunar New Year concert, which brings together Eastern and Western music in an innovative musical experience reflects the wonderful diversity of Willoughby and promotes intercultural understanding and appreciation. Alongside the popular Last Night of the Proms concert and Christmas carols in December, these events bring music to thousands of people each year.
The WSO has been led since 2001 by internationally celebrated orchestral icon and local legend, Chief Conductor and Artistic Director, Dr Nicholas Milton AM. Renowned for his charismatic stage presence, powerful interpretations and compelling musical integrity, Dr Milton continues to attract international attention as one of the most outstanding Australian working today. Nicholas is currently Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the Göttingen Symphony Orchestra in Germany and Chief Conductor of the State Opera House in Klagenfurt, Austria, where he is currently conducting a new production of Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Despite a vibrant international schedule, the Grammy-nominated conductor remains passionately committed to the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, an orchestral family with whom he has been associated for some thirty-five joyful years. Proudly managed by Willoughby City Council.