DSO general manager Philippa Harris said the orchestra was pulling out all the stops to give local audiences an exciting year of musical treats, including a new family concert and putting the spotlight on some of the people who had helped to shape the orchestra over the years.
"We have curated a very special programme for the year, and we are thrilled to be welcoming an incredible array of guest conductors and soloists to join us for the celebration," Ms Harris said.
Among those whose contributions will be highlighted is the late Prof Jack Speirs, the orchestra’s musical director until 1989, whose Fanfare will be performed during the DSO’s 60th Gala concert. The September gala, led by principal guest conductor James Judd, will also feature illustrious soloists Michael Houstoun (piano) and Jonathan Lemalu (bass).
Judd will also spearhead a collaboration between the DSO and New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, who will unite in May to perform Mahler’s epic Resurrection symphony, with City Choir Dunedin and soprano soloist Anna Leese.
The concert will also feature a new work, Fanfare Kotahitanga, by Dunedin composer Prof Anthony Ritchie — another stalwart supporter of the DSO.
"We are very excited to be working alongside the NZSO, City Choir and Anna Leese to perform Mahler’s impressive work and a new work by the wonderful Anthony Ritchie," Ms Harris said.
Australia-based conductor Umberto Clerici will return to conduct "Beethoven’s Triple" in August, which will feature the talents of leading Dunedin musicians Terence Dennis (piano), DSO concertmaster Tessa Petersen (violin), and principal cello Heleen du Plessis.
Ms Harris said 2026 also marked another important anniversary for music in Dunedin — the 100th anniversary of the University of Otago’s School of Music.
All three soloists in the "Beethoven’s Triple" concert were instrument lecturers in the school, which had a long-standing and fruitful relationship with the orchestra, she said.
Long-serving principal guest conductor (1997-2006) Nicholas Braithwaite will return to conduct in 2026, leading the DSO’s "Bridget and a French Connection" matinee series concerts in April, featuring NZSO principal flute Bridget Douglas — who began her musical career in Dunedin.
New Zealand conductor Brent Stewart will also return to conduct the "Beethoven, Ritchie and Faure" matinee concerts in June, featuring Wellington-based cellist in the world premiere of Anthony Ritchie’s Cello Concerto.
Ms Harris said, alongside these more traditional offerings, the DSO would also present music to appeal to families in two concerts.
"Kiri and Lou Live", a family concert narrated by Olivia Tennet with music by Don McGlashan, will be held in August, and popular music concert "Movie Magic: The Music of John Williams" will be held in November.
The orchestra will also continue its education and community programmes, including the DSO Academy, Composers’ Workshop, and Play with the Orchestra, plus school tours across the region.
"From the growth in our audiences, outreach project participants, sponsors, funders, donors and volunteers, it’s clear that our orchestra is meeting a real need in our community," Ms Harris said.
"We are so grateful for everyone’s support which really does make a difference; we wouldn’t be here without you.
"So please come and celebrate with us."
Subscriptions for the DSO’s 60th anniversary season are now open.
