Morning Melodies 2026 at Arts Centre Melbourne
A year of music, memories and midweek magic
If you’re after a reason to head into the city more often in 2026, Morning Melodies is one of the most joyful excuses you’ll find. Held at the magnificent Hamer Hall, this long-running concert series serves up an hour of world-class entertainment once a month — and it’s perfect for anyone who loves good music, good company and a day out that doesn’t require a late night.
Now in its 41st year, Morning Melodies continues to charm audiences with everything from show tunes and swing to golden-era pop, opera, dance and contemporary classics. It’s affordable, uplifting and a lovely way to treat yourself (and perhaps a friend) to something special.
The 2026 program is a beauty. Take a look with us.
What is Morning Melodies?
Morning Melodies is a much-loved daytime concert series presented by Arts Centre Melbourne. It began back in 1985 as humble film screenings and has since grown into a major annual program attended by more than half a million people over four decades.
Each concert runs for one hour, with both 11:00am and 1:30pm performances — ideal for avoiding the rush and making a leisurely day of it. Many people pair their show with a tram ride, a wander along the river, or a relaxed lunch in the Arts Precinct.
Related reading: Music Concerts in Melbourne: Free Midweek Recitals & More
2026 Morning Melodies Line-Up
The 2026 line-up reads like a who’s who of Australian talent. Big names, future stars and beloved crowd favourites all take turns on the Hamer Hall stage.
Here’s what’s coming up month by month:
Monday 23 February
Denis Walter – My All Time Favourites
A warm and witty musical journey through Denis Walter’s extraordinary 55-year career across radio, television and the stage. Expect golden-era crooning, country gems, classical favourites and plenty of stories from one of Australia’s most recognisable voices. Book tickets here.
Monday 23 March
Claire Lyon – The Music of Broadway
Internationally acclaimed soprano Claire Lyon (of The Phantom of the Opera fame) brings Broadway to Hamer Hall. Hear favourites from Cats, West Side Story, The Sound of Music and more. Book tickets here.
Monday 27 April
The 60 Four – Hits of the ‘60s and ‘70s
Relive the magic of pop’s golden decades. Backed by a powerhouse live band, The 60 Four deliver a high-energy, Vegas-style concert featuring hits from Elvis, The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, The Bee Gees and plenty more. Book tickets here.
Monday 11 May
Rhys Tolhurst – A Swing Affair featuring Nina Ferro
Swing classics with charm to spare. Rhys Tolhurst joins forces with vocalist Nina Ferro to pay tribute to the Great American Songbook — think Sinatra, Ella, Bublé and the timeless tunes that shaped a generation. Book tickets here.
Tuesday 2 June
En Pointe – The Australian Ballet School
A beautiful mixed program showcasing tomorrow’s stars of Australian ballet. Expect a blend of contemporary works and classical favourites performed by the School’s talented full-time students. Book tickets here.
Monday 20 July
Orchestra Victoria with Caroline O’Connor – Music and Me
Australian legend Caroline O’Connor AM takes the stage with Orchestra Victoria, performing music she has personally selected for its meaning in her remarkable global career. A rare treat. Book tickets here.
Monday 17 August
VCA Music Theatre Showcase – Echoes of Broadway
The Victorian College of the Arts’ graduating music theatre students celebrate Broadway’s Golden Age with heart, harmony and impressive ensemble work. A fantastic chance to spot emerging stars. Book tickets here.
Monday 14 September
Silvie Paladino – A Life On Stage
Silvie Paladino reflects on her extraordinary journey with stories and songs from Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, Cats, Chess, Sunset Boulevard and more. A heartfelt and powerful hour from one of Australia’s favourite leading ladies. Book tickets here.
Monday 26 October
I Am Woman – Bold, Brassy and Iconic
Cabaret artists Amelia Ryan and Libby O’Donovan OAM celebrate the legendary women who shaped 1960s Australian music — Helen Reddy, Judith Durham, Olivia Newton-John and others. Expect laughs, stories and iconic songs. Book tickets here.
Monday 9 November
Teddy Tahu Rhodes & Georgia Wilkinson – A Little Glamour and a Lot of Joy
Opera meets charm in this delightful pairing. Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Georgia Wilkinson bring their world-class voices to a morning of duets, classics and light-hearted musical storytelling. Book tickets here.
Monday 7 December
Christmas Melodies
Celebrate the festive season with a big band, choir and guest artists (to be announced). A joyous finale filled with carols and much-loved Christmas classics. Book tickets here.
Morning Melodies at Hamer Hall
Kathy’s review
If you have not yet been to a Morning Melodies at Hamer Hall, it’s impossible to imagine why or where you have been! These little gems are so popular that getting a ticket can be quite tricky, even though there are afternoon sessions now as well.
I discovered MM last year through Seniors In Melbourne and so far I have enjoyed four shows: the Victorian Ballet School, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Maggie Beer’s eclectic personal choice of program and the latest, “The 60 Four”. The latter was definitely my most intense and enjoyable experience yet.
Advertised as music from the 60’s and 70’s, I was hooked from word go! I knew my accompanying friend would get right into the vibe but I didn’t realise just how quickly nor vocally. The well-known Leo Sayer’s “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, set the stage for what was to come. “Sweet Caroline”, Staying Alive”, JOK’s “Shout!” were just a few that ensured heartfelt singalongs. The “boys”, (they are all in their 20s) were also not at all shy of taking on classics such as “Bridge Over troubled Water” and “Let It Be”, the latter a most tender rendition shared by these exceptionally talented vocalists. The Beach Boys’ “Californian Girls”, The Monkeys’ “I’m A Believer, ” and ABBA earned a spot as well.
Thankfully the group’s secondary teacher recognised early their musical talent and introduced them to “The Jersy Boys”. Since then, “The 60 Four” has read the room cleverly. Their confident vocal ranges, harmonies and interpretation of the hits have been received enthusiastically by audiences who grew up in those times.
Hamer Hall was filled with an excited and large crowd of seniors re-living their collective youths.
As well as their vocal talents, the choreography was also a captivating aspect of the performance: breath-taking with smooth, well-known moves, innovative and abundant in confidence. Undoubtedly a good proportion of the audience were reminiscing of times long gone when their hips and backs could match this ridiculous energy level whilst singing perfectly at the same time!
Performing at Hamer Hall has ticked one of the boxes for “The 60 Four”. They have also been busy getting gigs on cruise ships … imagine how those crafts rocked into the night, and boardrooms. Next on their bucket list … The Edinburgh Fringe Festival! Two of their equally ambitious and proud mums are doing the fund-raising to get them there.
Perhaps SIM members can help to send these young talented men on their way! If you do manage to catch their show in your part of town, you can be guaranteed “The 60 Four” will give you bang for-your-buck!
The lines of excited fans getting selfies after the performance proved that the Hamer Hall Morning Melodies really hit the button with this concert. In the words of the guru … “Do yourself a favour” and check out what else is on the MM calendar for the rest of the year. Guaranteed there’s something there for everyone.
Perhaps I’ll see you in the stalls.
– Kathy
Ticket Information
Morning Melodies Melbourne 2026 offers fantastic value, with a range of ticketing options to suit all preferences:
- Full subscription: $22 per show for all 11 performances (save $13 per ticket).
- Choose your own subscription: $26 per show for 3 to 10 performances (save $9 per ticket).
- Single tickets: $35 Adult | $22 Child (under 16).
- Group bookings: $26 per ticket (groups of 4 or more).
How to Book
- Online: artscentremelbourne.com.au/morningmelodies
- Phone: 1300 182 183 (Mon – Sat, 9am – 4.30pm)
- In person: Box Office at Hamer Hall or under the Spire (Mon – Sat, 11am – 4pm)
Terrie’s review
Love this venue, very stylish. It can be a little confusing but lots of helpful, friendly ushers to show you the way. The seats in the theatre are very comfortable.
I thoroughly enjoyed this Morning Melody, leaving with a smile on my face and thinking I will be back to see some other artists. Just delightful to be able to experience these entertainment gems. Only now I’m retired I’m discovering all the amazing things the City of Melbourne has to offer.
– Terrie
Dine at The Barre
Just a short stroll from Hamer Hall, The Barre offers a special dining experience available on Morning Melodies performance days. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to round out your visit—no need to rush home straight after the final note.
Located on the ground level of the Theatres Building (under the spire), The Barre is a stylish yet relaxed space, perfect for a pre-show bite or a leisurely lunch afterwards. The menu focuses on modern Australian flavours, with seasonal dishes that showcase local produce—whether you’re after something light or a more substantial meal.
It gets busy, so book ahead! Here’s the menu.
Accessibility at Arts Centre Melbourne
Hamer Hall is designed to be accessible to all visitors, featuring:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating.
- Hearing loops for those using hearing aids.
- Accessible bathrooms on each level.
- Lift access to all floors.
For any specific accessibility needs, visitors are encouraged to contact the venue in advance.
Getting to Hamer Hall
Located in Melbourne’s vibrant Arts Precinct, getting to Morning Melodies Melbourne is easy:
- Train: Flinders Street Station is 650 metres away.
- Tram: Routes along St Kilda Road and Swanston Street stop nearby.
- Bus: Several bus routes service the area.
- Car: On-site parking is available from $17, including accessible parking spaces.
This article was published in collaboration with Arts Centre Melbourne.
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