As always, the programs reflect the stunning collaborative effort of all involved and showcase our deep love of melody, innovation and inspiration. We celebrate and honour the 150 years since Ravel’s birth along with two Viennese masters in Tour 1, which is followed in May by the Australian premiere of a stunning work by the renowned Lera Auerbach with two favourite trios by Schumann and Smetana.

A gorgeous arrangement of Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune opens Tour 3 with Beethoven’s Ghost and Shostakovich’s powerful second trio. In September, we visit with the masters of song in Chopin and Schubert, with a tribute to Fanny and Felix Mendelssohn in a lovely work by Australian composer Anne Cawrse. And we close the season with luscious big piano quartets by Brahms, Fauré and Australian Matthew Hindson.

Not only do I have the honour of working once again with my old friends, violinists Natalie Chee, Daniel Dodds, Elizabeth Layton and Alexandra Osborne, and cellists Julian Smiles and Clancy Newman, but in 2025 I welcome for the first time to Selby & Friends the brilliant virtuoso violinist Kristian Winther and SSO Principal Cellist Catherine Hewgill. I’m delighted to once again welcome two accomplished young Australians to the Season currently studying in the US – the now 20-year- old cellist Benett Tsai who returns in July and young Sydney violist Isabella Bignasca in November.

These outstanding artists bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and charisma to the series, but alongside these important attributes are joy, generosity of spirit and a comradeship and willingness to share with their younger colleagues that is unparalleled.

It promises to be a very exciting season indeed of fabulous music, brilliant performers and new friends. I warmly invite you to our 2025 Season and look forward to welcoming you with my friends.