The prestigious Shanghai Symphony Orchestra (SSO) has announced a major tour across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, set to take place in March 2026. Under the baton of Music Director Long Yu, the tour marks a significant cultural moment, blending East and West through a compelling programme of classical and contemporary works.
Founded in 1879, the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra is Asia’s oldest symphony orchestra and has earned international acclaim for its musical excellence and global collaborations. The ensemble first captured the attention of global audiences through its contribution to the Oscar-winning soundtrack of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and has since graced stages including Carnegie Hall and the Berliner Philharmonie.
A Tour That Bridges Cultures
The 2026 tour brings the SSO to Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland and, for the first time in its history, Singapore. This will also mark the orchestra’s first return to New Zealand in over 25 years, and a welcome homecoming to Australian audiences.
The programme is a celebration of cultural dialogue, featuring works by iconic composers Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov, alongside contemporary Chinese composers Elliot Leung and Qigang Chen. Long Yu emphasises that this artistic blend showcases the orchestra’s commitment to both honouring tradition and championing modern Chinese music on the global stage.
Highlights of the Programme
Among the highlights is the performance of Elliot Leung’s ten-movement suite Chinese Kitchen: A Feast of Flavours— a vibrant and imaginative musical journey that evokes the richness of Chinese culinary culture. Audiences will also experience Qigang Chen’s piano concerto Er Huang, performed by Serena Wang, who will be making her Australasian debut with this tour.
Acclaimed cellist Jian Wang joins the tour as a featured soloist, further elevating the programme with his refined musicianship and global reputation.
Tour Dates and Venues
- Melbourne: Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall – Friday, March 13, 2026
- Sydney: Sydney Opera House – Sunday, March 15, 2026
- Auckland: Auckland Arts Festival – Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20, 2026
- Singapore: Esplanade Concert Hall – Monday, March 23, 2026
The tour is presented in collaboration with major arts organisations, including the Sydney Opera House, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Auckland Arts Festival, and the Singapore Symphony Group.
A Cultural Event Not to Be Missed
With its carefully curated repertoire, internationally acclaimed soloists and historic venues, this tour offers a rare opportunity for audiences across the region to witness the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra’s artistry and vision. It promises to be a musical experience that both honours tradition and embraces innovation.
Tickets and further programme details will be released later this year. For updates, follow the SSO and its presenting partners online.
Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s most storied orchestras live in concert in 2026.