Perth Symphony was founded in 2011 by violist Bourby Webster, who was encouraged by many of WA’s outstanding classical players to start an orchestra. The opportunity to create an infinite number of magical concerts – with WA as the backdrop – along with the need to showcase the incredible talent being nurtured in the State meant a new orchestra for WA was not just an opportunity but an imperative.
Perth Symphony quickly became known as “the orchestra that breaks the rules”, redefining the orchestral music experience by playing in places and spaces you’d never expect, from sheds to warehouses and art deco cinemas to aeroplane hangars!
The other key difference was the music – works from Mozart to Metallica, Björk to Beethoven and everything in between. By taking the orchestra out of the concert hall and into communities across Western Australia, Perth Symphony has performed for more than 500,000 people.
We are unique amongst orchestras and believe that music has the ability to move and inspire people from all cultures and walks of life. We challenge traditions and create powerful, compelling performances.
Perth Symphony has created and produced the groundbreaking REIMAGINED series of concerts, including the critically acclaimed: ‘Unplugged: Nirvana Reimagined’, ‘Faith & Freedom: The music of George Michael’, and the ‘Nothing Compares: The Music of Prince’.