Auckland Philharmonia’s 2026 Season promises a rich tapestry of musical brilliance, so mark your calendars and get booking for a season of international stars, local legends and cinematic magic.
Among the season’s major highlights are New Zealand debuts from internationally acclaimed artists, including cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason, and conductor Stéphane Denève. The season also marks the return of audience favourites such as violinists James Ehnes and Ning Feng, and pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk.
Highlights include:
NZ Herald Premier Series: Gavrylyuk and Rach 3
7.30pm, Thursday 12 February – Auckland Town Hall
The 2026 season opens with fireworks as pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk returns to dazzle audiences with Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.3—one of the most technically demanding and emotionally charged works in the repertoire.
Sharing the programme is Zemlinsky’s The Little Mermaid, a lush, romantic tone poem inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s bittersweet fairy tale. Composed in the shadow of Zemlinsky’s heartbreak, the work channels personal sorrow into soaring orchestral storytelling.
Classic Series: Best of Brahms
7.30pm, Thursday 19 February
This all-Brahms programme sees Concertmaster Andrew Beer and Principal Cello Ashley Brown tae centre stage for Brahms’ Double Concerto for Violin and Cello. Conducting is Giordano Bellincampi, known for his mastery of Brahms’ repertoire.
NZ Herald Premier Series: Boléro
7.30pm, Thursday 2 April
Ravel’s Boléro, famously choreographed by Torvill and Dean at the 1984 Winter Olympics, takes centre stage in a night that also celebrates Kiwi violinist Amalia Hall.
Classic Series: Ehnes Plays Mozart
7.30pm, Thursday 14 May
Grammy-winning violinist James Ehnes returns to perform Mozart under the baton of young French conductor Samy Rachid, who made a memorable Auckland debut in 2024.
All shows performed at Auckland Town Hall.
FILM, OPERA & FAMILY-FRIENDLY DELIGHTS
Wizard of Oz: Live in Concert
7.30pm, Friday 8 May & 2pm, Saturday 9 May – Aotea Centre
Relive the magic of the 1939 classic as the orchestra performs Herbert Stothart’s original orchestrations live in sync with the film.
Opera in Concert: Madama Butterfly
7.30pm, Saturday 25 July – Auckland Town Hall
A season highlight, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly promises a moving evening of passion, betrayal, and heartbreak, with soprano Erika Grimaldi leading a stellar cast.
Kiri and Lou in Concert
11am & 2pm, Saturday 22 August – Bruce Mason Centre
Beloved by tamariki and parents alike, the award-winning animated series comes to life with live orchestral music and visuals from the show. Presented by Liv Tennet, it’s a perfect concert for young families.
The Magic of John Williams
7.30pm, Saturday 29 August – Aotea Centre
Experience the unforgettable soundtracks of Hollywood’s greatest blockbusters in a spectacular celebration of John Williams’ iconic film music. From Star Wars to Harry Potter, Jurassic Park to Indiana Jones, this is movie magic brought to life by a full symphony orchestra.
Taking the podium is Stéphane Denève, a close friend and longtime collaborator of Williams, bringing deep insight and energy to this unmissable evening of cinematic brilliance.
