The romance, drama and unmistakable passion of Italy will take centre stage in Brisbane as the Queensland Symphony Orchestra presents its dazzling Italian Gala at QPAC Concert Hall on Friday 15 May 2026.
Led by Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici and joined by Concertmaster Natsuko Yoshimoto, the orchestra will transport audiences on a sweeping musical journey through Italy’s rich and evocative soundscape.
From the playful brilliance of Gioachino Rossini’s The Barber of Seville to the soaring emotional power of Giacomo Puccini and Giuseppe Verdi, the program captures the heart and soul of Italian music in all its colour and intensity.
Clerici describes the Italian Gala as a celebration that is as thrilling for musicians as it is for audiences.
“This program celebrates Italy’s extraordinary musical heritage and is such a joy to perform,” he said.
“The repertoire moves from Rossini’s playfulness to the deep emotion of Puccini, alongside the dramatic colours of Piazzolla and Rota.
What excites me most is the way musicians respond to one another in the moment—creating something alive, unpredictable and full of energy. That’s what makes every performance unique.”
A highlight of the evening will be Antonio Vivaldi’s Triple Concerto for violin, cello and accordion, featuring Clerici in a rare solo appearance on cello, alongside Yoshimoto and internationally renowned accordionist James Crabb.
The second half shifts into a cinematic celebration of Italy, with works including Astor Piazzolla’s Aconcagua and Nino Rota’s La Strada Suite, bringing a rich, filmic atmosphere to the stage.
Yoshimoto says performing in the Italian Gala is both inspiring and deeply personal.
“Sharing the stage with Umberto Clerici and James Crabb is always an incredibly inspiring experience,” she said.
“They push me to dig deeper musically, and together we bring out the brilliance of Vivaldi’s writing—full of radiance, energy and dramatic contrast. Audiences will be captivated by the virtuosity and the musical dialogue between soloists and orchestra.”
Part of QSO’s 2026 Concert Specials series, the Italian Gala promises an unforgettable evening of passion, artistry and musical storytelling—bringing the spirit of Italy to Brisbane without ever leaving your seat.
For more information and tickets, visit the Queensland Symphony Orchestra website.
