The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) unveiled its 2026 World Symphony Series Summer Season on February 11 at Mandela Sanctuary.

The event also announced the orchestra’s participation in the internationally recognised Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship (TACF).

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The launch outlined a dynamic 2026 programme featuring leading international soloists, distinguished conductors, and a continued focus on artistic excellence, inclusivity, and mentorship within South Africa’s classical music sector.

Bongani Tembe, chief executive and artistic director of the orchestra, said, “The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is proud to present its 2026 World Symphony Series Summer Season and to meaningfully contribute to the Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship, which fosters talented women conductors through active mentorship and real-world professional opportunities.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Bongani Tembe, chief executive and artistic director of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Video: Asanda Matlhare #Rosebank #Orchestra ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

The JPO’s 2026 World Symphony Series Summer Season will take place at the Wits Linder Auditorium, University of the Witwatersrand, every Thursday from February 26 to March 19, with concerts starting at 19:30.\

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The season opens on 26 February under the baton of Yasuo Shinozaki, featuring Canadian cellist Bryan Cheng in Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1 in D minor. The programme also includes Britten’s Simple Symphony and concludes with Dvořák’s much-loved ‘New World’ Symphony.

The final concert, to be held on March 19, conducted by Conrad van Alphen, features Reznicek’s Donna Diana Overture, Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with Bulgarian pianist Emanuil Ivanov, and Tchaikovsky’s deeply moving “Pathétique” Symphony.

There will also be a Valentine’s Day Gala Concert, which will be presented at the Wits Linder Auditorium.

The concert will be conducted by Daniel Boico. The concert celebrates love through a programme of popular classics, including highlights from Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, Holst’s Venus from The Planets, and Tchaikovsky’s Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker.

Tickets will be available via Quicket, starting from R190.

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