Celebrate the boldness and energy of youth when Associate Conductor Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith leads the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra in Mendelssohn’s Lobgesang(Hymn of Praise), alongside a trio of exuberant Australian works. Hear musical history in the making as the orchestra unveils the winner of the 2026 Young Composer Award, paired with a joyous work, Flight, by the 2017 award-winner and rising star composer Ella Macens. The wistful third movement from Miloslav Pěnička’s Gemini Suite, Up in the Fluffy Clouds, delighted audiences at The Concourse in 2025. This year, by popular demand, the orchestra performs the world premiere of the Gemini Suite in full, before the Willoughby Symphony Choir joins the orchestra to bring this concert to an uplifting close with Mendelssohn’s stunning Lobgesang, written in 1840 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the invention of Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press. Don’t miss this vibrant showcase of youth and innovation.
The Young Composer Award is generously supported by Mark Wakely in memory of Steven Alward.
To ensure an enjoyable experience for all patrons, we recommend children be aged 5 or older to attend.
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times when attending a concert as The Concourse is a licensed venue. We will deny entry to the child if they are unattended by a responsible adult.
PROGRAM
Ella Macens
Flight
Miloslav Pěnička
Gemini Suite
Winner of the 2026 Young Composer Award
Mendelssohn
Lobgesang (Hymn of Praise)
ARTISTS
Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith, Associate Conductor
Willoughby Symphony Choir