Geelong Arts Centre’s 2026 Music Program has arrived, and it’s serving an entire year of musical colour, charisma and goosebump-worthy moments.
It’s the kind of program that feels like flipping through the world’s most eclectic record collection — orchestral classics, Americana icons, indie darlings, Motown legends, folk storytellers — each one adding their own spark to a season that’s vibrant, expressive, and brimming with personality. Capping it off as the final glittering bow on top of this musical year is the incomparable Casey Donovan, closing out 2026 with a show that promises to be nothing short of unforgettable.
But before the grand finale arrives, the season rolls out a rich tapestry of sound.
Things kick off on 21 February as the Geelong Symphony Orchestra returns to Costa Hall with French Flair, a passionate swirl of Ravel’s hypnotic Bolero, Chopin’s dazzling Piano Concerto No. 1 with the extraordinary Konstantin Shamray, and the fiery heat of Bizet’s Carmen. It’s the kind of concert that throws you straight into the emotional deep end — lush, bold, and bursting with dramatic colour.
In May (Saturday 9), the orchestra softens the palette with Seasons and Beyond, guided by director and soloist Dale Bartrop. Grieg’s Holberg Suite sets the tone with elegance, Bach’s Concerto No. 2 shines with bright precision, and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons delivers a hit of joy and nostalgia that feels like time travelling through weather itself. Then on 24 October, the GSO shifts gears once again with Beethoven Revealed, exploring one of music’s greatest minds through the heroic Egmont Overture, the expansive Triple Concerto featuring Trio Anima Mundi and the playful brilliance of Symphony No. 4.
March keeps the momentum soaring as Gillian Welch & David Rawlings return to Costa Hall following their earlier sold-out Australian run — three Sydney Opera House shows and five Hamer Hall shows snapped up in a flash. Their harmonies are otherworldly, their storytelling rich and tender, and together they create a live music experience that feels both intimate and timeless. Their show is Sunday 1 March touring under Love Police.
Just a few days later, on 5 March, the beloved M. Ward steps into The Open House with his band The Undertakers. Known for his dreamy vocals, whisper-soft charisma and intricately layered guitar work, Ward has carved out a sound that’s nostalgic, smoky and beautifully atmospheric. With the full band behind him, songs from across his solo catalogue, his She & Him collaborations and his Monsters of Folk era take on new life — deeper, richer and tailor-made for an intimate venue.
The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra then sweeps through the year with five major performances as part of their Geelong season, each shaped by the bold imagination of Chief Conductor Jaime Martín. From the epic opening notes of Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra in March to the glowing warmth of Handel’s Messiah in December, the MSO’s 2026 season is full of emotional contrasts and radiant musicianship. Expect favourites like Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto (with the brilliant Andrea Lam), European masterworks, and new voices shaping the sound of contemporary orchestral music.
March also delivers a major hit of nostalgia when Human Nature bring their MTWN20 Motown anniversary celebrations to Costa Hall. Fans can expect all the classics — “My Girl,” “Baby I Need Your Lovin’,” “I’ll Be There,” and so many more — delivered with the unmistakable harmonies and charm Australia has loved for more than 30 years. Add in the Tierney Brothers performing tracks from their debut album Soundtrack Of My Life, and it’s a full-blown night of feel-good rhythm and soul.
Then, in April, beloved singer-songwriter Josh Pyke brings his warm, witty storytelling to The Open House as part of his Feeding the Wolves and Other Stories tour. It’s Pyke at his most intimate and generous — stripped-back performances that allow the lyrics, the craft and the connection to take centre stage.
On Saturday 31 October, Casey Donovan steps into The Story House to close out the year with THIS IS ME, her biggest national tour to date. It’s the perfect finale — a celebration of one of Australia’s most powerful voices and most open-hearted performers. Donovan takes audiences on a journey from her unforgettable Australian Idol beginnings through the huge musical theatre hits (The Sapphires, Chicago, We Will Rock You, Sister Act, & Juliet), the iconic televised concert moments, and into brand-new original music performed live for the first time.
It’s personal. It’s powerful. It’s the kind of show that leaves a beautiful ache in your chest. It brings the entire 2026 Music Program home with heart, humour and breathtaking talent.
A year of music — all leading to one extraordinary final note. Geelong, get ready to listen.
