About QSO
As an arts leader and great Australian orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra is renowned for its high quality, breathtaking performances of both classical and modern compositions that engage audiences of diverse musical tastes, interests, and ages.
As one of the largest performing arts companies in Queensland and the state’s only professional symphony orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra plays a vital role in Queensland’s cultural community: educating; mentoring aspiring performers; touring regional centres; broadcasting; and performing with state, national, and international ballet and opera companies.
Each year, QSO attracts the world’s best conductors and soloists as part of our acclaimed concert season, in addition to presenting unique blockbuster events. QSO is passionate about commissioning innovative new programs and Australian works and continues to invest in collaborations, recordings, and digital initiatives.
Powered by music, our passionate and talented team works hard on and off the stage to bring out the best in people, and share in a sense of wonderment and excitement that is truly for everyone to enjoy.
At our core, we believe we all have the power to enrich lives and this becomes true with every uplifting experience we deliver for our audiences, partners, and supporters.
#Our Story • Your Story
Queensland’s orchestral history dates back to 1871, when violinist R.T. Jefferies arrived in Brisbane with a passion for sharing the exhilaration of live symphonic music. However, it wasn’t until 1947 that Queensland established its own, and Australia’s second, professional symphony orchestra, which was the result of a partnership between the Australian Broadcasting Commission, the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council.
The 45-member Queensland Symphony Orchestra took to the stage for the first time on 26 March 1947, performing for 2,500 music enthusiasts at Brisbane City Hall. The live symphony orchestra performance, featuring guest conductor Percy Code, pianist Eunice Gardiner and works by Wagner, Grieg, Berlioz, and Tchaikovsky, marked the beginning of a new era of Queensland music-making. In its first year, Queensland Symphony Orchestra performed 31 concerts, and initiated the annual tour of North Queensland.
Today, Umberto Clerici, named Principal Conductor of the QSO, leads many of our performances. Learn more about our people, and Chief Conductor.
