_(1).jpg)
PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF ORANGE COUNTY ANNOUNCES 2026-27 SEASON
Opening Night: Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Lisa Batiashvili & Gautier Capuçon
Residency by Vienna Philharmonic with Yannick Nézet-Séguin, Yuja Wang and Pacific Chorale in March 2027
25th Anniversary Laguna Beach Music Festival featuring past Artistic Directors and collaborators including Ray Chen, Joyce Yang, Jeremy Denk, and Angella Ahn
Recitals by Itzhak Perlman, Simon Trpčeski, Louis Lortie, and Yeol Eum Son
Appearances by San Francisco Symphony, National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine, Midori with Festival Strings Lucerne, Daniil Trifonov with San Diego Symphony, Isata Kanneh-Mason with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, and Ruckus with Emi Ferguson and Rachell Ellen Wong
LINK TO DOWNLOAD PRESS RELEASE WITH FULL SEASON CALENDAR
(IRVINE, CA)—The Philharmonic Society of Orange County is proud to announce its 2026-27 season, a dynamic lineup that brings the world’s most celebrated orchestras, legendary soloists, and boundary-pushing ensembles to Orange County.
Highlights include a two-concert residency by the Vienna Philharmonic under Yannick Nézet-Séguin; an Opening Night chamber collaboration featuring Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Lisa Batiashvili, and Gautier Capuçon; appearances by Itzhak Perlman, Midori, Daniil Trifonov; and a season-closing performance by the Los Angeles Philharmonic featuring John Williams’ Piano Concerto No. 2. The season also underscores the Philharmonic Society’s commitment to innovative programming through its Eclectic Orange Series, with performances by the “period-instrument rock band” Ruckus, the Danish String Quartet, and a bold celebration of minimalist icons Steve Reich and Philip Glass, alongside festive holiday concerts with Canadian Brass and Voctave. Balancing tradition and innovation, the Philharmonic Society’s 73rd season reflects its enduring commitment to artistic excellence, creative exploration, and transformative live music experiences.
“This season, the Philharmonic Society is proud to present a lineup that reflects our commitment to world-class artistry and innovative programming,” said President and Artistic Director Tommy Phillips. “From landmark orchestral performances to intimate chamber and recital experiences, and our adventurous Eclectic Orange Series, our goal is to create concerts that inspire, surprise, and connect our community through the power of music. We look forward to welcoming audiences to a season full of discovery, passion, and unforgettable performances.”
Orchestra Residency: Vienna Philharmonic with Yannick Nézet-Séguin (March 2027)
The Philharmonic Society in partnership with Cal Performances bring Vienna Philharmonic and conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin to California for an exclusive residency and tour in the Spring of 2027. The residency is made possible by major funding from longtime California arts patrons Maria Manetti Shrem of the San Francisco Bay Area and Elizabeth Segerstrom of Orange County.
The tour begins in Northern California with three performances at Zellerbach Hall, hosted by Cal Performances on March 2-4, and concludes in Southern California with two performances hosted by the Philharmonic Society on March 5 and 7 at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Pianist Yuja Wang will join the orchestra at both venues for Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3, and the orchestra’s program will feature Mahler’s Symphonies Nos. 2 and 4, with an additional performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 9 at Zellerbach Hall. Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 will be performed with the San Francisco Symphony Chorus (Jenny Wong, director) at Cal Performances, and with the Grammy Award-winning Pacific Chorale (Robert Istad, Artistic Director), for the Philharmonic Society’s presentation in Orange County.
Of the residency, Jeremy Geffen, Cal Performances’ Executive and Artistic Director, shared, “There is perhaps no stronger indicator of the spectacular success of the 2025 Maria Manetti Shrem and Elizabeth Segerstrom California Residency of the Vienna Philharmonic than the fact that all parties were enthusiastic to repeat the program only two seasons later. I’m elated that the 2027 residency will mark the return of the Vienna Philharmonic under the baton of Yannick Nézet-Séguin, an artistic pairing that we know to be incomparable, along with additional luminary performers Yuja Wang, Elīna Garanča, Christiane Karg, the Bay Area’s own San Francisco Symphony Chorus, and the Pacific Chorale. The opportunity to experience this extraordinary orchestra in a residency built around symphonies by Gustav Mahler, onetime Director of the Vienna Court Opera, the predecessor of the Vienna State Opera, from which the Vienna Philharmonic still draws its membership, will create incomparable and memorable experiences that combine the exalted musical tradition of this orchestra with some of the most thoughtful and charismatic guest artists of our time. I am exceptionally proud that, through the visionary support of two of the world’s most influential arts philanthropists based here in California, we can continue to bring the world’s leading artists and both unite Northern and Southern California and celebrate the unique cultural legacy of our state.”
“Bringing the Vienna Philharmonic to California is a rare and extraordinary opportunity…and bringing them back so soon for repeat engagements is even rarer,” said Tommy Phillips. “We are proud that we can again bring these exceptional musical experiences to audiences across the state with our partners at Cal Performances. With Yannick Nézet-Séguin leading the orchestra in this exclusive residency and tour, music lovers in Orange County will witness one of the world’s greatest orchestras at the height of its artistry. We are especially grateful to Maria Manetti Shrem and Elizabeth Segerstrom, whose generous support makes this collaboration possible and allows us to share the power and joy of classical music with our community.”
2026-27 Season Overview
The Philharmonic Society opens its 2026-27 season with three of today’s most celebrated classical artists—pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, violinist Lisa Batiashvili, and cellist Gautier Capuçon—joining forces for an electrifying chamber music program. Featuring works by Shostakovich, Debussy, and Dvořák, this rare collaboration brings together extraordinary individual artistry in a performance praised as “a supergroup to savour” (The Arts Desk). (Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
Grammy Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra returns with pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason for an evening of elegance and vitality. The program pairs classical favorites by Mozart and Haydn with selections from Handel’s Water Music Suite and a newly commissioned work by Katie Jenkins, showcasing Orpheus’ trademark conductor-less precision and collaborative spirit. (Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
Under the dynamic leadership of Music Director Rafael Payare, the San Diego Symphony performs Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10, a towering work of emotional intensity. Joining the orchestra is Grammy Award-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov, hailed by The New York Times as “the most astounding pianist of our age,” in Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1. (Friday, November 13, 2026, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
The genre-defying early-music ensemble Ruckus brings its high-energy, roots-inspired approach to baroque dance music in Strawberry Fields. Featuring flutist Emi Ferguson and violinist Rachell Ellen Wong, this exuberant program explores the rustic dances of Handel and Ignatius Sancho, inviting audiences into the joyful, communal spirit of 18th-century England. Co-presented with Soka Performing Arts Center. (Saturday, November 21, 2026, 8pm, Soka Performing Arts Center)
Pianist George Li, praised for his “youthful abandon with utter command” (The New York Times), presents a colorful solo recital featuring works by Schumann, Debussy, and Mussorgsky. Since his Silver Medal win at the International Tchaikovsky Competition, Li has emerged as one of the most compelling pianists of his generation. Co-presented with Soka Performing Arts Center. (Sunday, December 6, 2026, 3pm, Soka Performing Arts Center)
For more than 50 years, Canadian Brass has set the gold standard for brass performance. This festive holiday program blends virtuosic brilliance, warmth, and humor in a joyful evening of seasonal favorites—an Orange County tradition perfect for audiences of all ages. (Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
The holiday celebrations continue with Voctave, the world-renowned a cappella ensemble known for its breathtaking harmonies and vocal versatility. From timeless classics to festive favorites, this uplifting concert promises joy, laughter, and the magic of the season. (Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
The fearless Bang on a Can All-Stars celebrate minimalist icons Steve Reich and Philip Glass in 90/90, a two-part program honoring their groundbreaking work. Known for combining the energy of a rock band with chamber-music precision, the All-Stars deliver an electrifying exploration of two composers who reshaped contemporary music. Co-presented with Musco Center for the Arts. (Friday, January 15, 2027, 7:30pm, Musco Center for the Arts)
Legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman returns with longtime collaborator Rohan De Silva for an evening of unparalleled artistry. A 16-time Grammy Award winner and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Perlman continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his virtuosity, warmth, and irrepressible joy. (Thursday, January 21, 2027, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine, founded in 1918, presents a powerful program combining Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony with works by Ukrainian composers Bortniansky and Silvestrov. Rising violin star Dmytro Udovychenko, first prize winner of the 2024 Queen Elisabeth Competition, joins the orchestra for Bruch’s Violin Concerto. (Friday, January 22, 2027, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Laguna Beach Music Festival returns as a heartfelt homecoming, bringing together an all-star lineup of former Artistic Directors and cherished collaborators who have shaped the Festival’s legacy. Since its founding in 2003 with pianist Claude Frank, the Festival has welcomed world-class artists to Laguna Beach through intimate performances and meaningful educational and community engagement. This anniversary year reunites artists including violinists Ray Chen (2020 Artistic Director), Aubree Oliverson, and Angella Ahn (2007 Artistic Director with Ahn Trio); pianists Joyce Yang (2019 Artistic Director) and Jeremy Denk (2023 Artistic Director); the Calder Quartet (2003 Artistic Director); the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet (2015 Artistic Director); and the Junction Trio—Conrad Tao (2021 Artistic Director), Stefan Jackiw (2026 Artistic Director), and Jay Campbell—to celebrate 25 years of musical excellence and lasting artistic connection. (February 2-7, 2027, Laguna Playhouse)
Violinist Midori joins one of Europe’s most distinguished chamber orchestras, Festival Strings Lucerne, for a richly layered program featuring Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2, and a playful work by Swiss-Dutch composer Helena Winkelman, Papa Haydn's Parrot, Hommage à Haydn (2016). (Wednesday, February 17, 2027, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
Rooted in friendship and Scandinavian spirit, the acclaimed Danish String Quartet makes its debut appearance at Soka Performing Arts Center performing Gabriella Smith’s Carrot Revolution (2015), Shostakovich, and Beethoven’s deeply expressive String Quartet in C-sharp minor, Op. 131, with signature precision and warmth. Co-presented with Soka Performing Arts Center. (Friday, February 26, 2027, 8pm, Soka Performing Arts Center)
The world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic returns for a two-concert residency led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Highlights include Yuja Wang in Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3, Mahler’s Symphony No. 4, and a monumental performance of Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony, featuring Christiane Karg, Elīna Garanča, and the Grammy Award-winning Pacific Chorale. The Maria Manetti Shrem & Elizabeth Segerstrom California Orchestra Residency. (Friday, March 5, 2027, 8pm & Sunday, March 7, 2027, 3pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
Pianist Conrad Tao joins the Academy of St Martin in the Fields for a wide-ranging program spanning Ruth Crawford Seeger, Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23, and Copland’s iconic Appalachian Spring. Co-presented with Soka Performing Arts Center. (Friday, March 12, 2027, 8pm, Soka Performing Arts Center)
Acclaimed for her intelligent interpretations and imaginative programming, Yeol Eum Son presents a solo recital showcasing a dazzling range of repertoire and expressive depth. (Tuesday, March 30, 2027, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
Marking the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death, pianist Louis Lortie performs the monumental Hammerklavier Sonata alongside the Eroica Variations in a powerful tribute to the composer’s enduring legacy. Co-presented with Soka Performing Arts Center. (Sunday, April 11, 2027, 3pm, Soka Performing Arts Center)
Under the baton of Donald Runnicles, the San Francisco Symphony returns with a luminous program pairing Vaughan Williams’ radiant Symphony No. 5 with Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 featuring Swiss-Italian pianist Francesco Piemontesi. (Friday, April 16, 2027, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
With wit, virtuosity, and unmistakable charm, the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain transforms everything from classical masterworks to pop favorites into a delightfully unexpected concert experience. (Tuesday, April 27, 2027, 8pm, Irvine Barclay Theatre)
Renowned for his dazzling virtuosity and magnetic stage presence, Simon Trpčeski brings a tour-de-force recital program featuring works by Ravel, Tchaikovsky, Busoni, and Liszt. (Sunday, May 9, 2027, 3pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
Rising conductor Anna Handler leads the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a program pairing Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, “Titan,” with John Williams’ Piano Concerto No. 2, a vibrant, jazz-inflected work rich in cinematic color that premiered at Tanglewood in July 2025. This season finale celebrates orchestral storytelling at its most expansive and thrilling. (Saturday, May 29, 2027, 8pm, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall)
All artists, dates, venues, programs, and prices are subject to change.
TICKET INFORMATION
Season ticket packages for the 2026-27 season will be available January 24, 2026. Individual tickets for 2026-27 performances will go on sale to the general public in August 2026.
For more information, contact the Philharmonic Society’s Patron Services Department at (949) 553-2422 or visit www.philharmonicsociety.org.
PRESS & MEDIA
For complete 2026-27 season information, including artist bios and photos, please visit the Philharmonic Society’s Press & Media Room.
Contact press@philharmonicsociety.org to request access.
ABOUT THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF ORANGE COUNTY:
Founded in 1954 as Orange County’s first music organization, the Philharmonic Society of Orange County presents national and international performances of the highest quality and provides dynamic and innovative music education programs for individuals of all ages to enhance the lives of Orange County audiences through music.
Since its inception, the Philharmonic Society has evolved and grown with the county’s changing landscape, presenting artists and orchestras who set the standard for artistic achievement from Itzhak Perlman, Gustavo Dudamel, Yo-Yo Ma, and Renée Fleming to the Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and many others. In addition, the Philharmonic Society celebrates multi-disciplinary performances under its Eclectic Orange brand and embraces music from a wide range of countries with its World Music performances. Its celebrated concerts introduce children to classical music with creative and inspiring performances, instilling music appreciation for future generations.
The Philharmonic Society’s nationally recognized Youth Music Education Programs, offered free of charge, engage more than 80,000 students annually through curriculum-based music education programs that aim to inspire, expand imaginations, and encourage learning at all levels. These programs are made possible by the Committees of the Philharmonic Society comprised of nearly 450 volunteer members who provide more than 50,000 hours of in-kind service each year. As a key youth program, the exceptional Orange County Youth Symphony and String Ensemble provide top-tier training to the area’s most talented young musicians through multi-level ensemble instruction, leadership training, touring opportunities, challenging professional repertoire, and performances in world-class venues. The Philharmonic Society also promotes life-long learning connecting with colleges and universities to conduct masterclasses and workshops and providing pre-concert lectures to introduce audiences to program selections.
CONTACT:
Rosiana Falzon
(949) 553-2422, ext. 105
rosiana@philharmonicsociety.org
Marie Songco-Torres
(949) 553-2422, ext. 230
marie@philharmonicsociety.org