Sibelius: The Symphonies

This year, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra presents all seven of Sibelius’s symphonies across three concerts, led by Chief Conductor Mark Wigglesworth. Spanning more than three decades of musical evolution, the cycle traces Sibelius’s journey from the passionate sweep of his early works to the clarity, restraint and elemental power of his later symphonies. Each concert stands alone, but experience all three and you’ll trace one of music’s most extraordinary artistic journeys.

Concert 1 begins the journey with music full of passion, drama and rhythmic energy. The First opens with its unforgettable solitary clarinet before expanding into sweeping melodies and powerful orchestral writing, while the Third symphony reveals Sibelius moving towards a leaner, more focused style.

Concert 2 reveals two contrasting sides of the composer. The Second builds from gentle beginnings to an exhilarating, triumphant finale, while the Fourth is darker and more introspective, with spare textures and striking stillness.

The cycle concludes with Symphonies 5, 6 & 7, showcasing Sibelius at the height of his powers. From the majestic swan-inspired theme of the Fifth to the warmth of the Sixth and the extraordinary single-movement Seventh, these works create a powerful sense of momentum, atmosphere and timeless beauty.

Experience one concert or the complete cycle across all three.