2026 Symbiosis
Symbiosis is an exciting chamber music project that reimagines the traditional concert format, inviting audiences into a more intimate and dynamic concert experience.
Featuring The Sydney Youth Orchestra musicians, the Symbiosis concerts showcase SYO’s musician-led chamber ensembles who have shaped every aspect of their programs from repertoire selection to artistic interpretation. SYO is thrilled to have Tahlia Petrosian, SYO alumni and esteemed Violist guiding our musicians as Program Mentor on this project.
This program celebrates a breadth of diverse and contemporary voices, with 7 women and 6 Australian composers. Scroll on to read some repertoire highlights.
Join us at ACO on the Pier: The Neilson for an inspiring afternoon of diverse and dynamic repertoire.
- Saturday, August 1 2026
- 3pm, 5pm
- ACO On the Pier: The Neilson
Tahlia Petrosian, Program Mentor
Violist Tahlia Petrosian enjoys a multi-faceted career as a soloist, chamber musician, director of KLASSIK underground, creative producer and member of the Gewandhaus Orchestra Leipzig. One of the foremost innovators who is transforming classical music in the 21st century, Tahlia is much sought after as a consultant and creative producer for leading orchestras, arts organisations and artists for new concert formats and special projects in Europe, the US and Australia.
'Inspire' by Louise Trewartha (Aus)
Written in response to the resilience of nature during 2020, Inspire reflects on hope, breath and renewal. This uplifting fanfare captures the power of music to inspire change through luminous brass textures and expressive lyricism.
'Afro-Cuban Concerto for Wind Quintet' by Valerie Coleman
Bursting with infectious rhythms and vibrant energy, Afro-Cuban Concerto celebrates the rich musical traditions of Africa and Cuba. Combining dazzling ensemble playing with opportunities for improvisation, this work is a highlight of contemporary wind quintet repertoire.
'Steampunk' by David Bruce
Inspired by the imaginative world of steampunk, this witty and energetic work blends Victorian invention with contemporary music. Brass, woodwinds and strings become the gears and pistons of an imaginary steam-powered machine in a piece full of colour, humour and dazzling virtuosity.
