Melbourne Symphony Orchestra won’t stop the music

Restrictions on public gatherings because of the coronavirus have hit the arts sector particularly hard, but the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is keeping the music going for its fans.

On Monday night, the MSO offered a free livestream of its concert Scheherazade on the orchestra’s YouTube channel.

Although the MSO has cancelled all concerts between now and April 13, it will work to livestream more performances over the coming weeks.

The orchestra’s managing director, Sophie Galaise, said “we must keep the music going” during these uncertain times.

“It was a heartbreaking decision to cancel our upcoming performances, however ensuring the wellbeing of MSO audiences, musicians, staff – including those integral members employed on casual and contract bases – is our priority.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, we are committed to ensuring the longevity and sustainability of the MSO and will continue to support workers and musicians through this uncertain period.

“At the MSO, we have chosen to transform a big challenge into an opportunity and go forward with live streaming. This initiative to ‘Keep the Music Going’ ensures our musicians are playing and our audiences are engaged online. We are looking at new ways to perform and share our music until we are able to re-open our doors and welcome audiences back to the concert hall.”

Cancelled concerts with livestreaming at youtube.com/TheMSOrchestra announced so far include:

• Beethoven & Mendelssohn, March 19-20 – livestream on March 19
• Melbourne Ensemble, March 22 – livestream date to be confirmed
• Curriculum Concert (schools performance), March 26 – livestream date to be confirmed
• To Bach and Back, March 26-27 – livestream on March 26.

The Ben Folds (March 22) and Skyfall in Concert (April 2-4) concerts have been rescheduled, with replacement dates to be confirmed.

More information for ticket holders can be found at mso.com.au. Stay tuned to MSO’s social media platforms for updates on livestreamed concerts.