A Night to Remember: Queensland Symphony Orchestra Captivates Brisbane

Brisbane’s cultural heartbeat was on full display at a recent Queensland Symphony Orchestra performance, where the works of French masters Dukas, Ravel, and Franck were brought to life with breathtaking precision and passion. The evening was a testament to the orchestra’s enduring ability to deliver world-class performances that resonate deeply with audiences across the city.

The concert opened with Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, a piece brimming with whimsy and mischief. The orchestra’s interpretation was both playful and commanding, conjuring vivid imagery that echoed the magic of Disney’s Fantasia. Every swell and flutter of the score was met with rapt attention, as the musicians wove a spellbinding narrative through sound.

Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G followed, featuring the virtuosic Jean-Efflam Bavouzet at the keys. His performance shimmered with elegance and flair, particularly in the second movement—a lyrical, almost cinematic passage that held the audience in hushed awe. The interplay between soloist and orchestra was seamless, a dance of nuance and expression.

The evening culminated in Franck’s Symphony in D minor, a dramatic and emotionally charged finale. Under the baton of conductor Lionel Bringuier, the orchestra delivered a performance marked by clarity, conviction, and cohesion. Bringuier’s direction was assured and expressive, guiding the ensemble through the symphony’s stormy landscapes with finesse and fire.

What stood out just as much as the music was the audience itself—engaged, attentive, and deeply appreciative. Brisbane’s concertgoers, from long-time subscribers to first-time attendees, filled the hall with a palpable sense of reverence for the arts. It was a reminder that classical music holds a cherished place in the city’s cultural fabric, and that the Queensland Symphony Orchestra continues to be one of its most vital threads.

This performance wasn’t just another date on the calendar—it was a celebration of artistic excellence and community spirit. As Brisbane continues to embrace its rich cultural offerings, the QSO remains at the forefront, delivering performances that inspire, challenge, and uplift.

For those who value the transformative power of live music, the message is clear: the Queensland Symphony Orchestra is not to be missed.

Written By: Joanna Letic

Imagery: Sam Muller