Utzon Music 2023

Overview

A hidden gem of the Sydney Opera House's year-round program and an acclaimed chamber music series is returning in 2023 for its 16th year. Utzon Music curates collections of Australian and international artists to perform a range of global takes on classical pieces in a purpose-designed, intimate concert space. The mid-century Utzon Room is a space where artists have unrivalled proximity to their audience against the backdrop of the spectacular Sydney Harbour – sit back with a complimentary glass of bubbles and enjoy a sophisticated program of eleven performances throughout the year.

The diverse roster begins with powerhouse Malian singer, songwriter and guitarist Vieux Farka Touré, dubbed 'the Hendrix of the Sahara'. With a full band, he'll perform selections from his back catalogue and latest album, Les Racines, on Thursday, March 2. Then, on Sunday, April 2, take a trip to Tudor times with one of the UK's finest vocal groups The Gesualdo Six and its Renaissance-era catalogue.

From April 21-23, UK string maestros the Brodsky Quartet – now celebrating its 50th anniversary – will bring the passion and skill that's seen them perform with the likes of Elvis Costello and Paul McCartney to three concerts featuring the works of beloved classical composers like Bach, Britten and Schubert. And on Sunday, May 7, the French string quartet Quatuor Van Kuijk will have its Sydney debut and perform pieces by Mozart, Mendelssohn and Debussy.

On Sunday, July 23, German-British baritone Benjamin Appl will make his Sydney debut for an enchanting solo recital of songs for voice and piano in the German Liedel style. Then on Sunday, August 23, the new-generation Australian cellist James Morley returns home from Switzerland to perform a mix of old and new classical pieces in solo and duet.

Next up, Australian string collective the Alma Moodie Quartet will take audiences through a Romantic Journey on Sunday, September 24, covering everything from moody miniatures to Beethoven masterpieces. Then the series concludes on Sunday, October 8, with pianist Andrea Lam performing a program inspired by 19th-century love triangles and "the journey of life".

Utzon Music 2023 begins on Thursday, March 2 and concludes on Sunday, October 8. For more information and to book tickets, visit the website. 

Header images: Jaimi Joy