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[title]Watching an orchestra live is a kind of magic you can’t fully grasp until you’ve sat in a seat at the Sydney Opera House and experienced it for yourself. For some, it can feel a little daunting — but you might be surprised by how many melodies you recognise once the violins draw their bows. We spoke with Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s conductor-in-residence, Benjamin Northey, about all things Australian classical music, must-see concerts and his favourite Sydney spots.
Your career’s taken you from Melbourne to Finland, to London and beyond. What kind of perspective does all that travel give you on the Australian classical music scene?
We are a high-achieving musical nation on the global stage. That really stands out to me – our talent is limitless, even if the scale of our musical ecosystem is smaller than in Europe or America.
One of the most noticeable things is how we express our Australian identity and national themes through music. Our composers are constantly exploring what it means to be Australian and to live here. Their music often captures the essence of our landscapes – from the vast, dry expanses of the desert to lush rainforests and sweeping ocean beaches.
It’s been wonderful to perform the music of so many Australian composers and to hear their perspectives and stories – especially those of Indigenous Australian composers and performers, whose voices are essential to our national narrative.
Where do you go in Sydney when you need to clear your head or find inspiration?
The Royal Botanic Garden is my favourite place in Sydney. It’s beautifully designed and immaculately maintained – an oasis of calm and tranquillity in the heart of the CBD. That long walk through the gardens down to the Opera House and back is my happy place.
There’s so much happening in SSO’s 2026 season – is there a moment you’re especially excited for, or something you think audiences definitely shouldn’t miss?
It’s such an exciting season, full of highlights. Audiences should never miss Simone Young conducting the SSO – she is an absolute superstar.
From a personal perspective, I’m especially excited about the Listen to This discovery series that I’m presenting and conducting. These concerts explore great music by unpacking the elements that make it work – perfect for experienced concert-goers and newcomers alike. My goal is to make them engaging, fun, and a little bit celebratory – a blend of music and ideas.
You’re conducting a special concert with Kutcha Edwards in October. What kind of energy does he bring to the stage, and what can audiences expect from that performance?
Uncle Kutcha Edwards’ presence transcends music – he has become a cultural leader. His warm, resonant voice and songwriting stand in the lineage of artists like Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter. His songs carry messages of truth, understanding, honesty, hope, resilience, and beauty.
With the added richness of the orchestral sound and new arrangements, I believe this collaboration will be especially powerful. It’s not just a concert – it’s a sharing of stories that are deeply woven into Australia’s history.