MCO presents a fresh way to hear The Four Seasons in Melbourne this May
A rare chance to hear Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons paired with live narration—right here in Melbourne.
If you’re wondering whether Overgrown Paths is worth booking, the short answer is yes—especially if you enjoy classical music with a twist. This limited May season from the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra pairs well-known works with spoken word, creating a more immersive, story-led concert experience. With performances at the Melbourne Recital Centre and select regional venues, it’s an easy and rewarding outing to plan for.
A fresh take on a classic
Running from 7–10 May 2026, Overgrown Paths centres on a reimagining of The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi—but presented as it was originally intended, with the composer’s own sonnets woven through the music.
The music is paired with Vivaldi’s original sonnets, brought vividly to life by acclaimed Australian actor Helen Morse. Her narration adds a new emotional layer, guiding you through the changing moods of each season with a sense of drama and intimacy.
Leading the performance is MCO’s Artistic Director and violinist Sophie Rowell, whose playing is known for its clarity and warmth. Together, the music and spoken word create something that feels both familiar and entirely new.
A program built on storytelling
While The Four Seasons may be the headline, the full program has been thoughtfully curated to take you on a more reflective journey.
You’ll also hear:
- Italian Serenade by Hugo Wolf—light, lyrical, and full of charm
- Selections from Portraits by Libby Croad, paired with poetry by Eleanor Percy
- Excerpts from On an Overgrown Path by Leoš Janáček, reworked for string orchestra
Together, it’s a program that leans into lyricism, reflection and connection. Nothing feels rushed. It’s the kind of performance where you can simply sit, listen, and let it unfold.
When and where to see it
The Overgrown Paths program includes four performances across Victoria:
- Melbourne – 7 May, 7:30pm & 10 May, 2:30pm
at Melbourne Recital Centre - Yackandandah – 8 May, 7:00pm
at Yackandandah Public Hall - Mornington – 9 May, 3:30pm
at Peninsula Community Theatre
Seniors card tickets start from $55. Book online here.
If you’re based in Melbourne, the Recital Centre performances are particularly easy to plan around—right in the Southbank arts precinct, with step-free access, comfortable seating, and plenty of nearby dining options.
If you’re celebrating Mother’s Day with a loved one, what better way than this!
A little bonus for our readers
Yes—there’s a saving to be had if you’re planning to go.
For Overgrown Paths at the Melbourne Recital Centre, Seniors in Melbourne readers can take 10% off tickets when booking directly online.
Here’s how it works:
- Use the promo code MCOFAN10 when booking via the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra website
- Or simply book through the dedicated link here with the code already applied
The discount applies to all ticket types, so you can bring along a friend or family member and still save
A couple of things to note: This offer is only valid for the Melbourne Recital Centre performances. It doesn’t apply to the touring shows in Yackandandah or Mornington.
Why the Melbourne Recital Centre is worth the visit
If you haven’t been to the Melbourne Recital Centre in a while, this is a lovely excuse to return.
The Elisabeth Murdoch Hall is known for its exceptional acoustics—clear, warm, and perfectly suited to chamber music. Even from the back rows, you feel close to the performers. There’s no straining to hear, no sense of distance.
It’s also one of the more accessible venues in the city. There are lifts to all levels, generous legroom, and friendly staff who are always happy to help. For many concertgoers, that makes all the difference.
About the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra
For over 30 years, the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra has been a quiet achiever in Australia’s classical music scene.
Known for its intimate performances and adventurous programming, MCO regularly blends well-loved works with contemporary pieces and new commissions. The orchestra performs across metropolitan and regional Victoria, making high-quality live music accessible beyond the CBD.
Under the direction of Sophie Rowell, there’s a real sense of connection in their concerts—between musicians, music, and audience.
In conversation with Sophie Rowell
Why bring poetry into a classical concert?
For Sophie Rowell, it’s less of a leap than it might first seem.
“I’ve always been drawn to the way different art forms speak to and shape one another,” she explains. “Music doesn’t exist in isolation—it’s influenced by literature, art, even architecture. Bringing poetry into a concert feels completely natural.”
Rather than sitting alongside the music, the words become part of it—another voice in the room.
What does spoken word add for the audience?
Rowell sees it as a way of making the experience more immediate.
“Music is already a form of conversation—between performers, and between performers and audience. Adding text gives voice to something that is often felt but unspoken.”
It’s not about explaining the music, but deepening it—offering listeners another way in, especially for works they may already know well.
And what does Helen Morse bring to the performance?
Having Helen Morse involved, Rowell says, changes the dynamic entirely.
“To have an actor of Helen’s calibre give voice to these words adds an entirely new dimension. Her characterisation draws out the imagery and drama woven into the music.”
It’s this interplay—between voice and instrument—that gives Overgrown Paths its distinctive feel.
What do you hope audiences take away?
At its core, Rowell hopes the program creates a stronger sense of connection.
“My hope is that it allows audiences to experience these works in a more immediate and meaningful way.”
And perhaps, to hear something familiar with completely fresh ears.
What else is coming up with MCO in 2026
If Overgrown Paths sparks your interest, there’s plenty more to look forward to this year:
- Dancing Shadows (21–24 May)
A chamber program featuring expansive, expressive masterworks - Under the Canopy (9–12 July)
An orchestral concert with accordion virtuoso James Crabb - Wurrtoo: The Wombat Who Fell in Love with the Sky (10–11 July)
A charming family-friendly performance blending classical music with storytelling, presented in Ballarat and Werribee - A Feast of Music (11–13 September)
A full weekend festival of performances across multiple settings - DuskLit (1–4 October)
Featuring music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Felix Mendelssohn, with pianist Andrea Lam - Twilight Dialogues (24–25 October)
A reflective chamber program exploring music of introspection and beauty, featuring clarinettist David Griffiths - Chamber Music Dining at Narkoojee (24 October)
A rather special outing—three courses, matching wines, and live chamber music at Narkoojee Winery - Drifting Currents (26–29 November)
An orchestral program celebrating musical connection, starring MCO cellist Blair Harris
Make the most of Melbourne Chamber Orchestra
With Helen Morse’s narration and Sophie Rowell’s direction, Overgrown Paths feels less a story unfolding—one that’s reflective, a little nostalgic, and deeply engaging.
And honestly, isn’t that exactly what you want from a night out?
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This article has been published in collaboration with Melbourne Chamber Orchestra
