VSO 25/26 Season Brochure

PHOTO BY: JASON BELL

TWOSET VIOLIN STEVE HACKMAN

Thurs & Fri, Sep 25 & 26, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

“I am a Jedi, like my father before me…”

Julian Pellicano Conductor

Experience the spectacular Return of the Jedi on the big screen, with the full John Williams score played live by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

Fri & Sat, Jan 9 & 10, 2026 | 7pm | Orpheum

Cars fly, trees fight back, and monsters are on the loose in Harry’s second year at Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! This concert features the film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in high-definition, on a giant screen, while a live orchestra performs John Williams’ unforgettable score. Relive every magical moment as the music brings life to a story that has enchanted the world.

IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM

Fri & Sat, Oct 24 & 25, 2025 | 7pm

Accidentally brought back to life in Salem on Halloween night, three witches, known as the Sanderson sisters, attempt to steal the life essence from the town’s children so they can have eternal life. They are outwitted by a boy, Max Dennison, his young sister, Dani, and his girlfriend, Allison, and aided by a boy, Thackery Binx, who had been changed into a cat centuries earlier for trying to interfere with the witches. The film stars Bette Midler (Winifred), Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah), Kathy Najimy (Mary), Omri Katz (Max), Thora Birch (Dani), Vinessa Shaw (Allison).

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts ©All rights reserved.

Wed, Dec 10, 2025 | 7:30pm | South Delta Baptist Church, Delta Thurs, Dec 11, 2025 | 7:30pm | Kay Meek Arts Centre, West Vancouver Fri, Dec 12, 2025 | 4pm & 7:30pm | Centennial Theatre, North Vancouver Sat, Dec 13, 2025 | 4pm & 7:30pm | Bell Centre for the Performing Arts, Surrey Sun, Dec 21, 2025 | 4pm & 7:30pm | Orpheum, Vancouver

Andrew Crust Conductor Christopher Gaze Host

The annual tradition returns! Celebrate the holiday season with family and friends as you gather to hear your favourite carols and Christmas music sung by special guest soloists and performed live by the VSO. Beloved host Christopher Gaze will delight you with his characteristic antics and storytelling. A festive treat for all!

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS CONCERTS ENDOWED BY SHEAHAN AND GERALD Mc GAVIN, CM, OBC

Thurs, Dec 11, 2025 | 7:30pm Fri, Dec 12, 2025 | 7:30pm Chan Centre of the Performing Arts, UBC

Timothy Steeves Leader

The VSO’s holiday tradition returns to the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at UBC. Delight in one of the classical canon’s most iconic pieces, led by the VSO’s Timothy Steeves. The perfect musical event to share with family and friends.

Thurs, Jan 1, 2026 | 2:30pm | Orpheum

The Strauss Symphony of Canada featuring the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

Mark the New Year with timeless music, dazzling costumes, and breathtaking dancing! European singers, dancers, and the Strauss Symphony of Canada return for Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert. Join us at the Orpheum Theatre for an unforgettable performance that will enchant and delight audiences of all ages.

MASTERWORKS GOLD

TCHAIKOVSKY’S

FIRST PIANO CONCERTO

Sep 12 & 13, 2025

Otto Tausk Conductor Alexander Malofeev Piano

Missy Mazzoli Sinfonia (for Orbiting Spheres) Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1 R. Strauss Also sprach Zarathustra

Maestro Tausk opens the 2025/26 season by welcoming one of the brightest risingstars on the classical music scene, pianist Alexander Malofeev, to dazzle audiences with Tchaikovsky’s grandiose First Piano Concerto. Don’t miss the VSO debut of an artist known for making “a monumentally thunderous impression with his music” (The Los Angeles Times). Richard Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra never ceases to excite with its iconic “sunrise” opening fanfare, instantly recognizable from Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Missy Mazzoli’s Sinfonia (for Orbiting Spheres) encircles the listener in a solar system of sound.

MENDELSSOHN’S VIOLIN CONCERTO

Oct 17 & 18, 2025

Constantin Trinks Conductor Maria Ioudenitch Violin

Mendelssohn Violin Concerto Bruckner Symphony No. 5

Mendelssohn’s final concerto ranks among the top violin concertos of all time, impeccably bridging Classical and Romantic styles. Violinist Maria Ioudenitch breathes new life into this perennial favourite. Bruckner’s symphonies are often called “Cathedrals of Sound” and his fantastic fifth is no exception, culminating one of the most triumphant finales ever composed. German conductor Constantin Trinks leads us on a spiritual journey of mystery and grandeur.

ALEXANDER MALOFEEV

MARIA IOUDENITCH

RAVEL’S PIANO CONCERTOS

Nov 14 & 15, 2025

Otto Tausk Conductor

Yeol Eum Son Piano

George Benjamin Concerto for Orchestra Ravel Piano Concerto for the Left Hand Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major  Ravel Mother Goose (Ma mère l’Oye)

Celebrated South Korean pianist

Yeol Eum Son returns to the Orpheum to showcase two piano concertos by the French Romantic composer, Maurice Ravel. Maestro Tausk then takes us on an adventure into the fairytale world of Ravel’s Mother Goose, inspired by classic stories like Beauty and the Beast, Sleeping Beauty, and more. Dedicated to the memory of British composer Oliver Knussen, George Benjamin’s tour-de-force Concerto for Orchestra highlights the virtuosity of the musicians of our VSO.

BRAHMS & TCHAIKOVSKY 5

Feb 13 & 14, 2026

Han-Na Chang Conductor

Gil Shaham Violin

Ian Cusson A Child’s Bright Eyes

Brahms Violin Concerto Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5

One of the world’s foremost violinists, Gil Shaham rises to the challenge of Brahms’ only Violin Concerto, famously called “unplayable” due to its reckless speed and agility. Continuing on a daring note, conductor Han-Na Chang tempts Fate itself with Tchaikovsky’s magnificent Fifth Symphony. Canadian composer Ian Cusson’s tone poem, A Child’s Bright Eyes, takes inspiration from the work of late East Van poet, Zaccheus Jackson.

RACHMANINOFF’S SECOND SYMPHONY

Mar 13 & 14, 2026

Otto Tausk Conductor

Jean-Guihen Queyras Cello

Michael Oesterle La Chapelle

Dutilleux Cello Concerto Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2

Overflowing with lush melodies and sumptuous orchestrations, Maestro Tausk leads the VSO in Rachmaninoff’s towering Second Symphony. French-Canadian cellist Jean-Guihen Queyras has “always been willing to range outside the comfort zone of most of his colleagues” (The New Yorker) and tackles one of the 20th century’s most important additions to the cello repertoire, Tout un monde lointain… (A Whole Distant World…) by French composer Henri Dutilleux. Experience Canadian Michael Oesterle’s La Chapelle, a musical tribute to Montreal’s historic Bon-Pasteur Chapel.

GRIMAUD PLAYS GERSHWIN

May 22 & 23, 2026

Alexander Shelley Conductor Hélène Grimaud Piano

Jimmy Lopez Aino

Gershwin Piano Concerto in F Major Ravel Daphnis et Chloé

Celebrated French pianist Hélène Grimaud returns to the VSO to treat us to George Gershwin’s Concerto in F Major, brimming with enthusiasm and rhythm. English conductor Alexander Shelley summons the orchestra’s many musical colours in Ravel’s sensual ballet, Daphnis et Chloé. Peruvian composer Jimmy López’s Aino , hailed by The Chicago Tribune as “one of the most effective CSO commissions in recent seasons” receives its hotly anticipated Vancouver premiere.

GIL SHAHAM

JEAN-GUIHEN QUEYRAS

OTTO TAUSK

HÉLÈNE GRIMAUD

MASTERWORKS DIAMOND

BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTOS

Sep 19 & 20, 2025

Otto Tausk Conductor

Behzod Abduraimov Piano

Louise Ferrenc Symphony No. 3

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 2

Mozart Così fan tutte: Overture

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 4

Maestro Tausk and Uzbek pianist

FAURÉ’S REQUIEM

Nov 7 & 8, 2025

Otto Tausk Conductor

Maria Milstein Violin

Sarah Dufresne Soprano

Xiaomeng Zhang Baritone

Vancouver Chamber Choir

Brahms Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny)

Berg Violin Concerto

Fauré Requiem

Behzod Abduraimov, fresh from a performance together at the Hollywood Bowl last summer, reunite for their second collaboration exploring Beethoven piano concertos. French Romantic composer Louise Farrenc’s Third Symphony, currently experiencing a well-deserved revival, exudes power and excitement. Mozart’s overture to his comic opera Così fan tutte will delight with its mischievous charm and playful theatricality.

Experience the sublime beauty of Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem , lovingly written in memory of the French composer’s father. Soprano Sarah Dufresne and baritone Xiaomeng Zhang join forces with the Vancouver Chamber Choir to present this monumental choral work of eternal serenity. Maestro Tausk leads the orchestra in Johannes Brahms’

Song of Destiny and Alban Berg’s Violin Concerto, dedicated by the composer to “the memory of an angel” and masterfully interpreted by violinist Maria Milstein.

NIELSEN’S  “THE INEXTINGUISHABLE”

Jan 30 & 31, 2026

David Robertson Conductor Orli Shaham Piano

Alex Robertson Ballettszene John Adams Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes

Nielsen Symphony No. 4, “ The Inextinguishable”

Written against the backdrop of World War I, Nielsen’s Fourth Symphony, “The Inextinguishable”, stands as a beacon at the onset of the twentieth century. From its thunderous opening to one of the most stunning finales of the orchestral repertoire, the symphony comes to a grand close with a triumphant and enormous affirmation of life itself. Pianist Orli Shaham then joins Maestro Robertson for John Adams’ wickedly entertaining piano concerto in its longanticipated Vancouver premiere.

MÄRKL CONDUCTS BRAHMS 1

Mar 6 & 7, 2026

Jun Märkl Conductor Stefan Jackiw Violin

Takemitsu Ceremonial

Prokofiev Violin Concerto No. 2 Brahms Symphony No. 1

When conductor Jun Märkl and violinist Stefan Jackiw last performed together with the VSO, The Vancouver Sun described their collaboration as “stellar”. Ten years later, they reunite to present Prokofiev’s emotionally intense Second Violin Concerto. Takemitsu’s meditative Ceremonial contrasts the euphoric finale of Brahms’ First Symphony, a fitting homage to the composer’s hero, Beethoven.

JUN MÄRKL

BEHZOD ABDURAIMOV

OTTO TAUSK

DAVID ROBERTSON & ORLI SHAHAM

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO & JULIET

May 1 & 2, 2026

Anna-Maria Helsing Conductor

Vadym Kholodenko Piano

Prokofiev Love for Three Oranges: Suite Bartók Piano Concerto No. 3

Saariaho Lumière et pesanteur

Prokofiev Romeo and Juliet: Suite No. 2

Conductor Anna-Maria Helsing presents an evening of music sparkling with love’s many facets. Relive one of the greatest love stories ever told through Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet suite inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Named as “simply one of the best classical pianists working today” by The Scotland Herald, Vadym Kholodenko presents Béla Bartók’s radiant Third Piano Concerto. The late Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho’s evocative Lumière et pesanteur (Light and Gravity) scintillates with celestial beauty. Embark on an enchanted quest for love in Prokofiev’s orchestral suite for his comic opera, The Love for Three Oranges.

ANNA-MARIA HELSING

MAHLER’S THIRD SYMPHONY

May 29 & 30, 2026

Otto Tausk Conductor

Rihab Chaieb Mezzo-Soprano

Vancouver Bach Choir

Women’s Choir B oy’s Choir

Mahler Symphony No. 3

Gustav Mahler famously told fellow composer Jean Sibelius that “The symphony must be like the world. It must embrace everything.” Maestro Tausk brings the VSO’s classical season to an epic close with one of the most ambitious symphonies ever composed, Mahler’s extraordinary Third Symphony. Mezzosoprano Rihab Chaieb returns to the VSO in Mahler’s most extroverted and impressive work of genius that culminates in one of the most staggering conclusions of the orchestral canon.

2025/26 SEASON

SUMMER 2025

BMO DAY OF MUSIC

Presented by VSO

Free Special Event | pg6

Sat, May 24, 2025 | Various Venues

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN ™ DEAD MAN’S CHEST

IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

Summer Movie Concert | pg7

Thurs, Jul 3, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Fri, Jul 4, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

SYMPHONY AT SUNSET

Free Special Concert | pg6

Sat, Jul 5, 2025 | 8pm | Sunset Beach

DISTANT WORLDS:

MUSIC FROM FINAL FANTASY

Special Concert | pg7

Fri, Jul 11, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

SYMPHONY IN THE PARK

Free Special Concert | pg6

Sat, Jul 12, 2025 | 7:30pm | Deer Lake

Park, Burnaby

SEASON CONCERTS

2025 SUMMER & 2025/26 SEASON PULL-OUT CALENDAR

BARBIE ™ THE MOVIE IN CONCERT

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

Summer Movie Concert | pg7

Wed, Jul 16, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

ENCANTO™

IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

Summer Movie Concert | pg7

Fri, Jul 18, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sat, Jul 19, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

SEPTEMBER 2025

TCHAIKOVSKY’S

FIRST PIANO CONCERTO

Masterworks Gold | pg12

Fri, Sep 12, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Sep 13, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTOS

Assante Vancouver Centre

Masterworks Diamond | pg14

Surrey Sundays | pg25

Fri, Sep 19, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Sep 20, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sun, Sep 21, 2025 | 3:30pm |

Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey

STAR WARS RETURN OF THE JEDI ™ IN CONCERT

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS VSO Special Movie Concert | pg8

Thurs, Sep 25, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Fri, Sep 26, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

TWOSET VIOLIN

WITH THE VSO

Special Concert | pg5

Sat, Sep 27, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

THE PATH FORWARD

Presented by TD Ready Commitment

Free Special Concert | pg6

Sun, Sep 28, 2025 | Orpheum

OCTOBER 2025

GERSHWIN & FRIENDS

PARC Retirement Living Tea & Trumpets pg22

Thurs, Oct 2, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

MUSIC OF PHIL COLLINS & GENESIS

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg18

Fri, Oct 3, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Oct 4, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

CLASSICAL KIDS LIVE!

GERSHWIN’S MAGIC KEY Kids Concerts | pg26

Sun, Oct 5, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

SAINT-SAËNS’ THIRD VIOLIN CONCERTO

Musically Speaking | pg20

RGF Integrated Wealth Management

Symphony Sundays | pg23

Fri, Oct 10, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sun, Oct 12, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

MENDELSSOHN’S

VIOLIN CONCERTO

Masterworks Gold | pg12

Fri, Oct 17, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Oct 18, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

HOCUS POCUS™

IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS VSO Halloween Special Concert | pg9

Fri, Oct 24, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sat, Oct 25, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

MAGIC OF MOZART

PARC Retirement Living Tea & Trumpets | pg22

Thurs, Oct 30, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

LATIN NIGHT WITH SAL FERRERAS

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg18

Fri, Oct 31, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

NOVEMBER 2025

LATIN NIGHTS WITH SAL FERRERAS

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg18

Sat, Nov 1, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

THE PEASANT PRINCE: A SYMPHONIC TALE

Kids Concerts | pg26

Sun, Nov 2, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

FAURÉ’S REQUIEM

Assante Vancouver Centre

Masterworks Diamond | pg14

Surrey Sundays | pg25

Fri, Nov 7, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Nov 8, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sun, Nov 9, 2025 | 3:30pm |

Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey

RAVEL’S PIANO CONCERTOS

Masterworks Gold | pg13

Fri, Nov 14, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Nov 15, 2025 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

APPALACHIAN SPRING

Classical Afterworks | pg24

PARC Retirement Living North Shore Classics | pg25

Fri, Nov 21, 2025 | 6:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Nov 22, 2025 | 7:30pm | Centennial Theatre, North Vancouver

MOZART & SHOSTAKOVICH 11

Musically Speaking | pg21

RGF Integrated Wealth Management Symphony Sundays | pg23

Fri, Nov 28, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sun, Nov 30, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

DECEMBER 2025

THE HOLIDAY ™ IN CONCERT

FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg9

Thurs, Dec 4, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

THE SNOWMAN IN CONCERT

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg10

Sat, Dec 6, 2025 | 2pm | Orpheum

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS

WITH THE VSO

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg11

Dec 10–21, 2025 | Various Venues

VIVALDI’S THE FOUR SEASONS

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg11

Thurs, Dec 11, 2025 | 7:30pm | Chan Centre

Fri, Dec 12, 2025 | 7:30pm | Chan Centre

HOME ALONE ™ IN CONCERT

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg9

Wed, Dec 17, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Thurs, Dec 18, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

ELF ™ IN CONCERT

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg9

Fri, Dec 19, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sat, Dec 20, 2025 | 7pm | Orpheum

JANUARY 2026

SALUTE TO VIENNA NEW YEAR’S CONCERT

VSO Holiday Special Concert | pg11

Thurs, Jan 1, 2026 | 2:30pm | Orpheum

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS™ IN CONCERT

Movie Nights with the VSO presented by TELUS

VSO Special Movie Concert | pg8

Fri, Jan 9, 2026 | 7pm | Orpheum Sat, Jan 10, 2026 | 7pm | Orpheum

TCHAIKOVSKY & RACHMANINOFF

Classical Afterworks | pg24

PARC Retirement Living

North Shore Classics | pg25

Surrey Sundays | pg25

Fri, Jan 23, 2026 | 6:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Jan 24, 2026 | 7:30pm | Centennial

Theatre, North Vancouver

Sun, Jan 25, 2026 | 3:30pm |

Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey

NIELSEN’S

“THE INEXTINGUISHABLE”

Assante Vancouver Centre

Masterworks Diamond | pg14

Fri, Jan 30, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Jan 31, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

FEBRUARY 2026

STAR-CROSSED LOVERS

PARC Retirement Living Tea & Trumpets | pg22

Thurs, Feb 5, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

A SPOONFUL OF SUGAR

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg18

Fri, Feb 6, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Feb 7, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

WALL TO WALL PERCUSSION

Kids Concerts | pg26

Sun, Feb 8, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

BRAHMS & TCHAIKOVSKY 5

Masterworks Gold | pg13

Fri, Feb 13, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Feb 14, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA

Musically Speaking | pg21

PARC Retirement Living

North Shore Classics | pg25

RGF Integrated Wealth Management

Symphony Sundays | pg23

Fri, Feb 20, 2026 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sat, Feb 21, 2026 | 7:30pm | Centennial

Theatre, North Vancouver

Sun, Feb 22, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

Classical Afterworks | pg24

Fri, Feb 27, 2026 | 6:30pm | Orpheum

MARCH 2026

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

Surrey Sundays | pg25

Sun, Mar 1, 2026 | 3:30pm |

Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey

MÄRKL CONDUCTS BRAHMS 1

Assante Vancouver Centre

Masterworks Diamond | pg14

Fri, Mar 6, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Mar 7, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

RACHMANINOFF’S SECOND SYMPHONY

Masterworks Gold | pg13

RGF Integrated Wealth Management

Symphony Sundays | pg23

Fri, Mar 13, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, Mar 14, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sun, Mar 15, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

TAUSK CONDUCTS PROKOFIEV 5

Musically Speaking | pg21

Fri, Mar 20, 2026 | 7pm | Orpheum

BRAHMS x RADIOHEAD WITH THE VSO

Special Concert | pg5

Sat, Mar 21, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

AFTERNOON AT THE OSCARS

PARC Retirement Living Tea & Trumpets | pg22

Thurs, Mar 26, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

DISCO DIVAS

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg18

Fri, Mar 27, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum Sat, Mar 28, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

PLATYPUS THEATRE: BACH TO THE FUTURE

Kids Concerts | pg26

Sun, Mar 29, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

APRIL 2026

YO-YO MA WITH THE VSO

Special Concert | pg4

Fri, Apr 24, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

MAY 2026

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO & JULIET

Assante Vancouver Centre

Masterworks Diamond | pg15

Fri, May 1, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, May 2, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

MOSTLY MANCINI

PARC Retirement Living Tea & Trumpets | pg22

Thurs, May 7, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg19

Surrey Sundays | pg25

Fri, May 8, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, May 9, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sun, May 10, 2026 | 3:30pm |

Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey

PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION

Musically Speaking | pg21

RGF Integrated Wealth Management

Symphony Sundays | pg23

Fri, May 15, 2026 | 7pm | Orpheum

Sun, May 17, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

GRIMAUD PLAYS GERSHWIN

Masterworks Gold | pg13

Fri, May 22, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, May 23, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

MAHLER’S THIRD SYMPHONY

Assante Vancouver Centre

Masterworks Diamond | pg15

Fri, May 29, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, May 30, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

JUNE 2026

BROADWAY SPECTACULAR

PARC Retirement Living Tea & Trumpets | pg22

Thurs, June 4, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

KINGS OF SOUL

London Drugs VSO Pops | pg19

Fri, June 5, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

Sat, June 6, 2026 | 7:30pm | Orpheum

THE UNICORN’S BIRTHDAY

Kids Concerts | pg26

Sun, June 7, 2026 | 2pm | Orpheum

VSO POPS

MUSIC OF PHIL COLLINS & GENESIS

Oct 3 & 4, 2025

Stuart Chafetz Conductor

Aaron Finley Vocals

Brook Wood Vocals

Phil Collins’ one-of-a-kind drum work and songwriting have left an enduring mark on music. With the megaband Genesis and his numerous solo hits, Phil Collins and bandmates (Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford) penned unforgettable favourites featured in Stuart Chafetz’s symphonic tribute. Highlights include: “Follow You Follow Me,” “Abacab,” “I Missed Again,” “Turn It On Again,” “Sussudio,” “One More Night,” “Take Me Home,” “Two Hearts,” and the iconic “In the Air Tonight.”

LATIN NIGHTS WITH SAL FERRERAS

Oct 31 & Nov 1, 2025

Sal Ferreras Musical Director / Percussion

Miles Black Piano

Jodi Proznick Bass

Miguelito Valdés Trumpet

Audrey Ochoa Trombone

Tom Keenlyside Tenor Sax / Flute

Israel “Toto” Berriel Congas

They say Latin America’s greatest contribution to the world is joy. Sal Ferreras and his Latin Jazz Sextet pair up with the exuberant VSO in an irresistible evening of joy, rhythm and the eclectic musical styles, traditions and dances of South America and the Caribbean. Highlights include music by Astor Piazzolla and Alberto Ginastera (Argentina), Blas Galindo (México), Michel Camilo (Dominican Republic), Rafael Hernández (Puerto Rico), as well as some “serious” joyful folk music from Guatemala, Paraguay, and Venezuela.

SERIES SPONSOR

3

A SPOONFUL OF SUGAR

Feb 6 & 7, 2026

Andrew Crust Conductor

Ashley Brown Vocals

Ashley Brown débuted on Broadway as Belle in Disney’s theatrical production of  Beauty and the Beast, before originating the title role in  Mary Poppins  in the Broadway opening. Waltz through the wonderful worlds of Disney, musical theatre, and the American songbook, with favourites from her award-winning career and legendary shows including  Mary Poppins, Beauty and the Beast,  Cinderella, The Sound of Music,  My Fair Lady, Oklahoma!, and more — fun for the whole family!

SEAN O’LOUGHLIN

DISCO DIVAS

Mar 27 & 28, 2026

Sean O’Loughlin Conductor

Shayna Steele Vocals

Ashley Jayy Vocals

Kelly LeVesque Vocals

Put on your platform shoes and jump on the dance floor! Featuring a powerhouse vocal trio, Disco Divas celebrates the reigning Queens of Disco Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, and the one and only Diana Ross along with classic Disco hits from Earth, Wind & Fire, The Bee Gees, Michael Jackson and more. Sing along with the Disco Divas to your favourite hits like “Bad Girls,” “I’m Coming Out,” “Lady Marmalade,” “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now,” “We Are Family,” “Don’t Leave Me This Way,” “I Will Survive” and “She Works Hard For the Money.”

STUART CHAFETZ

SAL FERRERAS ASHLEY BROWN

MUSICALLY SPEAKING

SAINT-SAËNS’

THIRD VIOLIN CONCERTO

Oct 10, 2025

David Danzmayr Conductor Stella Chen Violin

Johann Strauss II Tik-Tak Polka Saint-Saëns Violin Concerto No. 3 Schubert Symphony No. 8, Unfinished R. Strauss Der Rosenkavalier: Suite

Named Gramophone’s 2023 Young Artist of the Year, violinist Stella Chen has dazzled audiences worldwide and now makes her highly anticipated Vancouver debut with Saint-Saëns’ mesmerizing Third Violin Concerto. Conductor David Danzmayr, Music Director of the Oregon Symphony, brings his dynamic energy to Schubert’s enigmatic “Unfinished Symphony.” The evening culminates in pure splendor with Richard Strauss’ shimmering suite from his sophisticated Viennese comedy, Der Rosenkavalier.

DAVID DANZMAYR

Classical concerts with a twist! Video screens on either side of the stage give fascinating close-ups of the musicians. The conductor invites you into the music with commentary and insights from the stage. World-class guest artists perform classical favourites and introduce you to new pieces that may just become your next favourite.

MOZART & SHOSTAKOVICH 11

Nov 28, 2025

Joshua Weilerstein Conductor Zlata Chochieva Piano

Samy Moussa

Adgilis Deda: Hymn for orchestra Mozart Piano Concerto No. 20 Shostakovich Symphony No. 11

Fresh off her Carnegie Hall debut, pianist Zlata Chochieva presents Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s dark and stormy Piano Concerto No. 20.

Conductor Joshua Weilerstein leads Dmitri Shostakovich’s powerful Eleventh Symphony, a profound reflection on the Russian Revolution of 1905. Canadian composer Samy Moussa’s Adgilis Deda evokes a sense of maternal protection.

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA

Feb 20, 2026

Han-Na Chang Conductor

Henry Shapard Cello

Prokofiev Sinfonia Concertante

Beethoven Symphony No. 3, Eroica

Revolutionary in its day, Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony pulses with the composer’s signature emotional power and sense of drama. Widely regarded as the greatest symphony of all time, Han-Na Chang conducts this groundbreaking work that announced the dawn of the Romantic movement and changed music forever. Henry Shapard, Principal Cello of the VSO, teams up with the orchestra for Prokofiev’s spirited and uplifting Sinfonia Concertante.

EARLY BIRD AFTER JUNE 3

TAUSK CONDUCTS PROKOFIEV 5

Mar 20, 2026

Otto Tausk Conductor

Paul Huang Violin

Jocelyn Morlock O Rose

Barber Violin Concerto

Prokofiev Symphony No. 5

Maestro Tausk leads the orchestra in Sergei Prokofiev’s exhilarating Fifth Symphony, written at the height of WWII and considered by the composer to be one of his best works. Virtuoso Paul Huang, known for his “masterly account of Barber’s Violin Concerto” (The New York Times) returns to dazzle Vancouver audiences with this lyrical masterpiece. Savour the delicate beauty of O Rose by former VSO Composer in Residence, the late Jocelyn Morlock.

PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION

May 15, 2026

Peter Oundjian Conductor

Simon Trpčeski Piano

Joan Tower Concerto for Orchestra Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 1 Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition

Journey with Toronto Symphony Orchestra Conductor Emeritus Peter Oundjian through the vivid imagery of Mussorgsky’s glorious Pictures at an Exhibition. “Set to dominate the piano world for a long time to come” (The Times of London), Simon Trpčeski tackles Rachmaninoff’s impressive First Piano Concerto, bursting with virtuosic passages. Joan Tower’s Concerto for Orchestra opens the evening showcasing the exceptional musicians of the VSO.

PAUL HUANG PETER OUNDJIAN

ZLATA CHOCHIEVA HENRY SHAPARD

TEA & TRUMPETS

ANDREW CRUST

ALEX WIDE

SYMPHONY SUNDAYS

SAINT-SAËNS’

THIRD VIOLIN CONCERTO

Oct 12, 2025

David Danzmayr Conductor

Stella Chen Violin

Johann Strauss II Tik-Tak Polka

Saint-Saëns Violin Concerto No. 3

Schubert Symphony No. 8, Unfinished

R. Strauss Der Rosenkavalier: Suite

See page 20 for concert description.

MOZART & SHOSTAKOVICH 11

Nov 30, 2025

Joshua Weilerstein Conductor

Zlata Chochieva Piano

Samy Moussa

Adgilis Deda: Hymn for orchestra

Mozart Piano Concerto No 20

Shostakovich Symphony No. 11

See page 21 for concert description.

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA

Feb 22, 2026

Han-Na Chang Conductor

Henry Shapard Cello

Prokofiev Sinfonia Concertante

Beethoven Symphony No. 3, Eroica

See page 21 for concert description.

RACHMANINOFF’S

SECOND SYMPHONY

Mar 15, 2026

Otto Tausk Conductor

Jean-Guihen Queyras Cello

Michael Oesterle La Chapelle

Dutilleux Cello Concerto

Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2

See page 13 for concert description.

PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION

May 17, 2026

Peter Oundjian Conductor

Simon Trpceski Piano

Joan Tower Concerto for Orchestra

Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 1

Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition

See page 21 for concert description.

JEAN-GUIHEN QUEYRAS

STELLA CHEN

JOSHUA WEILERSTEIN

HAN-NA CHANG

SIMON TRPCESKI

CLASSICAL AFTERWORKS

3 CONCERTS | FRIDAYS AT 6:30PM | ORPHEUM | NO INTERMISSIONS

These 80-minute classical concerts without an intermission are the perfect kick-off to your weekend.

APPALACHIAN SPRING

Nov 21, 2025

Andrew Crust Conductor

Time for Three:

Nicolas “Nick” Kendall Violin & Vocals

Charles Yang Violin & Vocals

Ranaan Meyer Double Bass & Vocals

Copland Appalachian Spring

Jocelyn Morlock Earthfall

Ives The Unanswered Question

Kevin Puts Contact

From Aaron Copland’s soaring Appalachian Spring to Charles Ives enigmatic classic, The Unanswered Question, conductor

Andrew Crust takes us on an emotional journey full of discovery. Experience the complex beauty of Earthfall from former VSO Composer in Residence, the late Jocelyn Morlock. Grammy® and Emmy®-winning ensemble, Time for Three, defies conventions with genre-bending excellence. TF3’s recent commission, Contact, has enjoyed performances with the leading orchestras and receives its Vancouver premiere.

TCHAIKOVSKY & RACHMANINOFF

Jan 23, 2026

Nicolas Ellis Conductor Joyce Yang Piano

Johanna Hermann-Müller Heroic Overture Rachmaninoff

Variations on a Theme of Paganini Mel Bonis Femmes de légende  Tchaikovsky Francesca da Rimini

Conductor Nicolas Ellis returns to the VSO to lead Rachmaninoff’s beloved Variations on a Theme of Paganini, poignantly interpreted by pianist Joyce Yang, known for her “vivid and beautiful playing” (The New York Times). Inspired by Danté’s Divine Comedy, Tchaikovsky’s retelling of Francesca da Rimini overflows with passion and tragedy. Mel Bonis’s musical tribute to women of legend presents compelling portraits of Cleopatra, Ophelia and Salome.

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

Feb 27, 2026

Naomi Woo Conductor Colin Currie Percussion

Haydn Symphony No. 103, Drumroll (Allegro con spirito)

Nicole Lizée Blurr is the Colour of My True Love’s Eyes Ravel Boléro

Feel the beat with an evening of pulsing music led by Conductor Naomi Woo. Haydn’s “Drumroll” Symphony kicks things off on a thrilling note, alongside Ravel’s iconic Boléro with driving snare drum and one of the most unforgettable climaxes in classical music. Performed at the BBC Proms in 2022 by percussionist Colin Currie, Nicole Lizée’s concerto for percussion and orchestra, Blurr is the Colour of My True Love’s Eyes, is a tour-de-force inspired by techniques found in stop-motion film and photography.

5 CONCERTS | SUNDAYS AT 3:30PM | BELL PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, SURREY

BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTOS

Sep 21, 2025

Otto Tausk Conductor

Behzod Abduraimov Piano

Louise Ferrenc Symphony No. 3

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 2

Mozart Così fan tutte: Overture

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 4

See page 14 for concert description.

FAURÉ’S REQUIEM

Nov 9, 2025

Otto Tausk Conductor

Maria Milstein Violin

Sarah Dufresne Soprano

Xiaomeng Baritone

Vancouver Chamber Choir

Brahms Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny)

Berg Violin Concerto

Fauré Requiem

See page 14 for concert description.

TCHAIKOVSKY & RACHMANINOFF

Jan 25, 2026

Nicolas Ellis Conductor

Joyce Yang Piano

Johanna Hermann-Müller Heroic Overture

Rachmaninoff

Variations on a Theme of Paganini

Mel Bonis Femmes de légende

(Cléopâtre, Ophélie, Salomé)

Tchaikovsky Francesca da Rimini

See page 24 for concert description.

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

Mar 1, 2026

Naomi Woo Conductor

Colin Currie Percussion

Haydn Symphony No. 103, Drumroll

Nicole Lizée Blurr is the Colour of My True Love’s Eyes

Ravel Boléro

See page 24 for concert description.

THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND

May 10, 2026

Sean O’Loughlin Conductor

Jimmie Herrod Vocals

See page 19 for concert description.

NORTH SHORE CLASSICS

3 CONCERTS

SATURDAYS AT 7:30PM

CENTENNIAL THEATRE, NORTH VANCOUVER

APPALACHIAN SPRING

Nov 22, 2025

Andrew Crust Conductor

Time for Three:

Nicolas “Nick” Kendall Violin & Vocals

Charles Yang Violin & Vocals

Ranaan Meyer Double Bass & Vocals

Copland Appalachian Spring

Jocelyn Morlock Earthfall

Ives The Unanswered Question

Kevin Puts Contact

See page 24 for concert description.

TCHAIKOVSKY & RACHMANINOFF

Jan 24, 2026

Nicolas Ellis Conductor

Joyce Yang Piano

Johanna Hermann-Müller Heroic Overture

Rachmaninoff Variations on a Theme of Paganini

Mel Bonis Femmes de légende

(Cléopâtre, Ophélie, Salomé)

Tchaikovsky Francesca da Rimini

See page 24 for concert description.

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA

Feb 21, 2026

Han-Na Chang Conductor

Henry Shapard Cello

Prokofiev Sinfonia Concertante

Beethoven Symphony No. 3, Eroica

See page 21 for concert description.

KIDS CONCERTS

CLASSICAL KIDS LIVE!

GERSHWIN’S MAGIC KEY

Oct 5, 2025

Classical Kids Live!

Kevin Cole Piano

Step into the streets of 1920s New York where a young newspaper boy meets the famous composer, George Gershwin. While learning about his life and music, they explore the many sights and sounds of the city and the vast melting pot of American music. Featuring timeless melodies like I Got Rhythm, Rhapsody in Blue, Summertim e and more!

THE PEASANT PRINCE: A SYMPHONIC TALE

Nov 2, 2025

Katy Abbott Composer Li Cunxin Author

The Peasant Prince: A Symphonic Tale  narrates, with words and music, the inspiring story of Li Cunxin and follows his journey to become one of the world’s greatest ballet dancers.  The Peasant Prince  is based on his best-selling memoir  Mao’s Last Dancer  and is a performance for all ages. As a master musical storyteller, Katy Abbott brings to light the profound in the ordinary – exploring

WALL TO WALL PERCUSSION

Feb 8, 2026

Vern Griffiths Percussion / Host

Back by popular demand, VSO Principal Percussionist Vern Griffiths brings the audience over to ‘his house’ for a fun and interactive concert featuring all things percussion — including the kitchen sink! With a concerto in the kitchen, a kid jam session, air drumming, and even how to make instruments at home, this show is a blast!

PLATYPUS THEATRE: BACH TO THE FUTURE

Mar 29, 2026

Platypus Theatre

“A school project about classical music?! ”  wails Corky, “What do I know about classical music? ” Uncle Siegfried to the rescue! But when Corky accidentally combines the ingredients of a magical musical spell her uncle is working on, she finds herself on an adventure with some of the world’s most fascinating composers – Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Dvořák, Shostakovich! Join Corky as she attempts to recreate the musical formula that will bring a happy ending to a time travel experiment gone awry.

THE UNICORN’S BIRTHDAY

June 7, 2026

Bob Singleton Composer

Join us for a family-friendly birthday celebration with music and story by Bob Singleton! Hear, see, and imagine as the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents a musical world of friendly penguins, monkeys, ducks, and other animals celebrating the Unicorn’s birthday. Bring your favourite unicorn items, wear your best unicorn outfits, and get your picture with the Birthday Unicorn at this charming, fantasy and fun-filled symphony experience.

VERN GRIFFITHS

THE UNICORN’S BIRTHDAY

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CHERNIAVSKY JUNIOR CLUB ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CONCERTS ON SALE NOW

Teachers and Parents: Mark Your Calendars! Engaging, interactive experiences designed to spark creativity and stimulate young minds. Bring your Elementary School on a field trip to the Orpheum and introduce students to the beauty of live orchestral music while encouraging learning in a fun and inspiring way.

Wall to Wall Percussion

Vern Griffiths, VSO Principal Percussion

OCT 21 & 22, 2025 | 10:15AM | 12:15PM Featuring all the musicianship, zaniness and creativity that go into being a percussionist — showing audiences how music is all around us! There is plenty of audience participation and fun for everyone.

The Hockey Sweater

MAY 5 & 6, 2026 | 10:15AM | 12:15PM

A quintessential piece of Canadiana! In the heart of Montréal Canadiens territory, a young boy is given, to his horror, a Toronto Maple Leafs jersey. In answering the question “how can I face my friends?” valuable life lessons are learned. VancouverSymphony.ca/Education

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