JPO Early Spring Season

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s (JPO) Early Spring Season begins on Thursday, 7 August 2025, promising four unforgettable evenings of orchestral brilliance.

Join the JPO for the ever popular pre-concert talks, hosted by Deano—formerly of the Morning Drive on Classic 1027. These engaging talks begin at 6:30 PM and are open to all patrons, free of charge.

• Concert 1 – 7 August

Conductor: Arjan Tien
Soloist: Dingaan Chabalala (trumpet)

The season opens with rising star Dingaan Chabalala performing Arutiunian’s Trumpet Concerto — a thrilling showcase of virtuosity and lyrical power. Also on the programme: Bizet’s vibrant Carmen Suite and Dvořák’s pastoral Symphony No. 6.

• Concert 2 – 14 August

Conductor: Mei-Ann Chen
Soloist: Judith Jauregui (piano)

Award-winning conductor Mei-Ann Chen makes her JPO debut, joined by pianist Judith Jauregui in Haydn’s joyful Piano Concerto in D Major. The evening also features Mozart’s exuberant Symphony No. 35 “Haffner” and Beethoven’s heroic Symphony No. 3 “Eroica”.

• Concert 3 – 21 August

Conductor: Mei-Ann Chen
Soloist: Keigo Mukawa (piano)

Chen returns to lead an inspiring programme spotlighting acclaimed young pianist Keigo Mukawa in Saint-Saëns’ exotic and dazzling Piano Concerto No. 5 “Egyptian”. Also featured: Mendelssohn-Hensel’s Overture in C Major and Schumann’s passionate Symphony No. 4.

• Concert 4 – 28 August

Conductor: Daniel Boico
Soloist: Susanne Hou (violin)

The season closes with Daniel Boico at the helm and internationally celebrated violinist Susanne Hou, performing Wieniawski’s deeply expressive Violin Concerto No. 2. The programme also includes Liszt’s spirited Hungarian Rhapsody No. 4 and Tchaikovsky’s powerful Symphony No. 7.

JPO tickets are available online through Quicket.

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