Queensland Symphony Orchestra

The Royal Organist

Concert Hall, QPAC


26 - 27 Jul 2025
$80 - $140

A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.

Discounts Available

Concession, Student, Child, Family, Groups, Schools

more info

Duration TBC

QSO The Royal Organist

For those who stare at the empty grand organ atop the QPAC Concert Hall, we have a concert just for you!

Even more thrilling, we will be joined by James O’Donnell, the previous organist for Westminster Abbey for over 20 years!

If you’ve seen the film Babe then you’ve already heard Camille Saint-Saens’ Symphony No.3. Its heartwarming melody features in the soundtrack, so if a little pig springs to mind while you listen, don’t be alarmed! It’s also one of the few symphonies featuring organ alongside our orchestral instruments,
and the effect is earth-shakingly powerful.

The Saint-Saens is an excellent gateway into the lesser-heard Symphonie Concertante for Organ and Orchestra in which Belgian organist-composer Joseph Jongen harnesses the awe-inspiring textures of the instrument. James O’Donnell will then show you how it’s done as Pablo Gonzalez conducts. Between these works, you’ll hear Colourscapes from Australia’s own Harry Sdraulig. This young composer uses the orchestra as his colour wheel to craft a vibrant listening experience.

Program


Sdraulig – Colourscapes
Saint-Saëns – Symphony No.3 (Organ Symphony)

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes (including interval)


Sdraulig – Colourscapes
Saint-Saëns – Symphony No.3 (Organ Symphony)
Bach – Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565
Jongen – Symphonie Concertante for Organ and Orchestra

Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes (no interval)


Artists

Pablo Gonzalez

Conductor

James O’Donnell

Soloist - Organ

Ed Le Brocq

Music on Sunday Host

Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Orchestra

Important Information

Age Recommendation

This production is recommended for ages 8+.

Accessibility at QPAC

For wheelchair users, Companion Card holders or those requiring assistance, dedicated seating options are available, and bookings can be made through our Call Centre by calling 136 246. You can also find information on access and accessibility at QPAC here .

Presented by Queensland Symphony Orchestra

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