The music that defined generations of cinema is about to fill the Concert Hall at QPAC.
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra is set to present The Music of John Williams, a celebration of one of film’s most influential composers. For decades, John Williams has shaped the sound of modern storytelling, writing themes that have become woven into popular culture.
Under the baton of Nicholas Buc, QSO will bring these iconic scores to life in a program spanning adventure, fantasy and cinematic drama.
Audiences can expect music from Star Wars, the sweeping landscapes of Jurassic Park, and the spellbinding world of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, among many others. These are themes that have outlived the films themselves, instantly recognisable from their opening notes.
Williams’ gift lies in his command of the orchestra. Bold brass writing sits alongside intimate string passages. Driving rhythms give way to moments of stillness. His scores carry the emotional arc of each story, from triumph to uncertainty, from wonder to danger.
Presented live, the full scale of that writing comes into focus. The orchestra steps into music originally written for the big screen and gives it new dimension within the concert hall. For long-time fans, the concert offers a chance to revisit familiar favourites. For younger listeners, it’s an introduction to symphonic writing at its most accessible and powerful.
WHAT: The Music of John Williams
WHEN: Friday 27 February, 7.30pm and Saturday 28 February, 7.30pm
WHERE: Concert Hall, QPAC
TICKETS: Get your tickets to The Music of John Williams here.
Also coming up for QSO
Following the cinematic celebration, Queensland Symphony Orchestra turns to works of reflection and scale.
Fauré Requiem
13 March 2026, 7.30pm
14 March 2026, 7.30pm
Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici leads a program that moves from contemporary Australian fanfares to one of the most cherished choral works in the repertoire. Maria Grenfell’s Gaudete Fanfare opens the evening, followed by Katy Abbott’s Fanfare for the Melancholy.
At its centre is Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, featuring soprano Stacey Alleaume, baritone Christopher Richardson, Brisbane Chamber Choir and Lumens Chamber Choir. Unlike many traditional requiems, Fauré’s work is known for its restrained and deeply human character.
Maestro 1: Umberto’s Mahler 5
20 March 2026, 7.30pm
21 March 2026, 7.30pm
Concert Hall, QPAC
The season continues with Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.5, a work that traces an emotional journey from darkness through to exultant affirmation. Umberto Clerici leads the orchestra in this monumental symphony.
Violinist Sergej Krylov joins the program to perform Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, a cornerstone of the violin repertoire that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
From the unmistakable themes of Hollywood to the profound statements of the symphonic canon, Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming concerts promise a dynamic start to 2026.
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
