LSO launches partnership with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) has embarked on a new partnership with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). The partnership will launch next spring with a series of LSO concerts in Australia, presented by MSO, Sydney Opera House and Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

Announced yesterday at the Australian High Commission in London by acting high commissioner to the UK, Lynette Wood, the new agreement will facilitate reciprocal touring in Australia and the UK, emerging artist exchanges between the two orchestras and opportunities to co-commission works.

LSO music director, Sir Simon Rattle, said: ‘This is a chance for musicians from both countries to deepen their understanding of each other, united through their passion for music-making at the highest level. Sharing our musical culture, we hope to make a lasting impact here and in Australia.’

Established in 1906, the MSO presents over 180 events per year, in the form of live performances, and concerts broadcast on TV, radio and online via MSO.LIVE. The orchestra this year welcomes its new chief conductor, Spanish conductor Jaime Martín, who is set to take over from Sir Andrew Davis at the end of 2022.

MSO managing director, Sophie Galaise, said: ‘We are delighted to unite our two orchestras as kindred spirits, established within a few years of each other at the turn of the last century. This partnership enables us to build on our shared histories to create a dynamic new place in the world for orchestral music, ensuring access for all to the joy of music making, whether it is in the digital universe or in the up-close opportunities for emerging young artists in both our countries.’