You won’t hear a better performance this side of eternity
Sydney Morning Herald
by Peter McCallum, Rod Yates, John ShandFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
February 26, 2026 — The Sydney Symphony Orchestra (SSO) delivered an extraordinary performance of Mahler’s *Song of the Earth* under the baton of Simone Young. This concert, part of the SSO’s 2026 season opener, showcased the orchestra’s ability to capture the emotional depth and complexity of Mahler’s work. From the opening tenor solo by Simon O’Neill to the hauntingly beautiful contributions of mezzo-soprano Alexandra Ionis, the performance was a masterclass in musical interpretation. The concert also featured Jean-Yves Thibaudet’s rendition of Qigang Chen’s *Er Huang*, a piano concerto inspired by traditional Chinese themes, and an energetic encore of Gershwin’s *I Got Rhythm*. These pieces, alongside Mahler’s *Song of the Earth*, highlighted the orchestra’s technical precision and emotional resonance.
The evening began with a *Rhythmic Acknowledgement of Country* by Adam Manning, setting a tone of respect and cultural reflection. Thibaudet’s performance of *Er Huang* was marked by delicate nuance and vibrant flourishes, evoking a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. The interplay between the piano and orchestra was seamless, with Thibaudet showcasing his technical brilliance while maintaining a deeply personal connection to the music.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/26/2026