Australian Brandenburg Orchestra 2025 Season at Melbourne Recital Centre
Bold, brilliant, and brimming with emotion: the Brandenburg returns with a spectacular line-up in 2025
If you’ve ever sat inside the soaring beauty of the Melbourne Recital Centre, you’ll know the magic that happens when the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra takes the stage. Their 2025 season promises more of that joyful, goosebump-inducing brilliance—with something truly special in each performance.
We spoke with the musicians themselves to uncover what makes this season so unique, and judging by our members’ glowing reviews from April’s Bach concert, this is a series well worth planning ahead for.
Australian Brandenburg Orchestra at Melbourne Recital Centre
Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or simply looking to explore more classical music concerts in Melbourne, the Brandenburg symphony delivers unforgettable experiences every time.
We had the pleasure of hearing Bach’s Orchestral Suites with a group of subscribers, and it was a night to remember. Margaret summed it up beautifully:
“Gorgeous Bach music, friendly folks around me… The Brandenburg conductor Paul Dyer was superb. He also played the harpsichord which I especially enjoy.” – Margaret
There’s something truly magical about every Brandenburg symphony concert. The music lifts your spirits, the musicians shine with passion and precision, and the Melbourne Recital Centre provides a warm, intimate setting that draws you right in.
If you’re curious about where to start with the Brandenburg experience, there’s no better time than 2025. Here’s what’s coming up—and why we think you’ll love it.
Baroque Unleashed 26 – 29 June 2025
A high-voltage celebration of Baroque’s best and boldest, where the spotlight’s squarely on the musicians.
Get ready for an adrenaline-charged concert where familiar favourites by Vivaldi and Locatelli are paired with rare gems that deserve their moment in the sun. With concertmaster Shaun Lee-Chen and baroque bassoonist Robert Nairn stepping forward, and Artistic Director Paul Dyer leading the charge, this is Brandenburg at its fiery, fearless best.
According to the musicians, the program was chosen to “celebrate the boldness of the Baroque era while also shining a light on hidden gems.”
The format is raw and expressive, allowing the performers to connect intimately with the audience.
Expect: Virtuosity, energy, and a sense of fun as your favourite Baroque hits are reimagined with flair.
From the musicians:
“Audiences will feel the fire and virtuosity of our players up close. It’s more personal and electric—like being in the room with musical risk-takers, not just performers.”
Circa & The Art of Fugue 7 – 10 August 2025
A mesmerising fusion of music and movement—Bach’s genius reinterpreted through breathtaking acrobatics.
In this boundary-pushing collaboration, the Brandenburg partners once more with Circa, Brisbane’s world-renowned contemporary circus company. Expect soaring lifts, emotional stillness, and jaw-dropping synchrony—all set to the intricate structure of Bach’s Art of Fugue.
The orchestra embraces the challenge with joy.
“It invites audiences to hear with their eyes as well as their ears,” one musician told us.
“The movement brings out the emotion and architecture in the music in ways words often can’t express.”
Expect: A powerful and poetic collision of sound and physical storytelling.
From the musicians:
“The choreography draws out the tension, patterns, and intricacies in a way that makes the music feel almost three-dimensional.”
Water Music 9 – 12 October 2025
Handel meets the spirit of Country in this moving tribute to water’s place in our lives.
A deeply resonant performance that pairs Handel’s Water Music with a brand-new piece composed by Rrawun Maymuru and Nick Wales. Sung in Yolŋu Matha, the new work reflects on water as both a sacred force and a symbol of connection.
This program is more than a concert—it’s an invitation to reflect.
“Through music, we offer a space to consider water’s beauty, power, and preciousness,” said one musician.
The collaborative process was “centred on storytelling, listening, and finding common ground.”
Expect: Profound stillness, stirring celebration, and an unforgettable musical conversation between cultures.
From the musicians:
“We hope it inspires reflection, appreciation, and perhaps even a shift in perspective.”
Noël! Noël! 6 December 2025
Heartfelt and festive, this beloved annual celebration returns with choir, candlelight and Christmas spirit.
If you’ve never been to a Brandenburg Christmas concert, this is the year to start. With the Brandenburg Choir in fine voice, Paul Dyer at the helm, and a mix of well-loved carols, sacred works and unexpected gems, Noël! Noël! is the perfect way to wrap up the year.
According to the musicians, the secret is in the heart: “We honour tradition while weaving in new surprises, and that sense of wonder keeps the magic alive—year after year.”
Expect: Beautiful music, festive warmth, and a shared sense of joy.
From the musicians:
“It’s warm, uplifting, and filled with music that speaks to the heart.”
From Our Audience: Reflections from Bach’s Orchestral Suites
Our readers were lucky to attend the April concert—and they’re still raving about it.
“The concert was just so good! … a total joy!” – Vicky & Tim
“A real treat… watching the most exuberant and passionate conductor and harpsichord player Paul Dyer was a highlight.” – Diane
“We enjoyed the concert very much.” – Rhonda
“It was just what we needed after a couple of trying weeks.” – Ian
Planning Your Visit to Melbourne Recital Centre
Address: 31 Sturt Street, Southbank VIC 3006
The Melbourne Recital Centre is one of the most accessible and comfortable concert venues in the city—perfect for relaxed and elegant evenings out.
Public Transport:
- By tram: Take any St Kilda Road tram (except Route 1) and get off at Grant Street (Stop 17). From there, it’s just a short walk to the venue.
- By train: The nearest station is Flinders Street. It’s about a 15-minute walk or a quick tram ride. Note: Occasionally trams may be delayed or diverted due to city events, so allow a little extra time just in case.
Accessibility:
- Step-free access is available from street to seat, with lifts and friendly staff ready to assist.
- Accessible seating and hearing loops are available—just mention your needs when booking.
- There’s a drop-off zone right out front for passengers who require mobility assistance.
- Companion Card holders are welcome and eligible for a second ticket at no cost.
Nearby amenities:
Southbank’s many cafés and restaurants are within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy a meal before or after the show. If you’re thinking of making a night of it, read our list of recommended CBD hotels.
If Bach’s Orchestral Suites lifted your spirits, there’s plenty more joy on the way. Whether it’s bold Baroque, breathtaking acrobatics, meaningful musical storytelling or festive cheer, the Brandenburg’s 2025 season offers something truly special. We’ll see you there.
This sponsored article has been published in collaboration with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra.
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