KZN Philharmonic Winter Season 2026

Two unforgettable orchestral evenings in Durban this June

The 2026 Winter Season of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra promises two powerful, accessible, and deeply moving concerts as part of the World Symphony Series. Whether you’re a seasoned classical music lover or someone curious to experience an orchestra live for the first time, these concerts are designed to thrill, inspire, and transport you.

Across two consecutive Thursdays, audiences will hear iconic works by Beethoven, Dvořák, Brahms, Mozart, Schumann, and Mendelssohn, performed by world-class conductors, extraordinary soloists, and the orchestra you know and love, right here in Durban.

Why You’ll Love These Concerts (Even If You’re New to Orchestra Music)

• Short, engaging programmes with music that tells clear stories
• International soloists you’d normally hear in Europe or London
• A perfect balance of familiar melodies and exciting discoveries
• An atmospheric venue right in the heart of Durban

World Symphony Series – Winter Season | Concert 1

Led by returning maestro Daniel Boico, the Winter Season opens with music that speaks of courage, passion, and emotional depth.

You’ll hear Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, a rousing, cinematic piece inspired by resistance against oppression, music that still feels relevant and stirring today. This is followed by Dvořák’s Violin Concerto, a richly melodic and energetic work brought to life by an electrifying soloist. The evening concludes with Brahms’ Third Symphony, a deeply personal and beautifully balanced masterpiece of the Romantic era.

Featured Soloist: Elvin Ganiyev – Violin

An award-winning Azerbaijani-Turkish violinist, Elvin Hoxha Ganiyev is one of the most exciting young soloists on the international stage. Born into a family of distinguished musicians, he began performing professionally as a child and has since appeared with leading orchestras worldwide.

His accolades include prizes at the Karol Szymanowski, George Enescu, and Jascha Heifetz international competitions, alongside a growing discography that has earned global acclaim. He performs on a rare 1715 Giuseppe Guarneri “filius Andreae” violin, producing a sound that is both powerful and exquisitely refined.

World Symphony Series – Winter Season | Concert 2

This second concert offers a dynamic contrast, opening with a high-energy curtain-raiser performed by the KZN Youth Orchestra, conducted by Lykele Temmingh. Expect bold brass, dramatic rhythms, and instantly recognisable classics, including Mozart and Brahms in their most vibrant forms.

The evening then shifts into lush Romantic territory as Brazilian-born conductor Alexandra Arrieche takes the podium. Highlights include Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A Minor, a work filled with tenderness and dialogue between piano and orchestra, and Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony, inspired by misty landscapes, ancient ruins, and dramatic history.

Featured Soloist: Federico Colli – Piano

Described by Gramophone as “one of the more original thinkers of his generation,” Federico Colli is celebrated for his poetic touch and deeply thoughtful interpretations. A Gold Medal winner at the Leeds International Piano Competition, he has performed with many of the world’s leading orchestras and is an exclusive recording artist with Chandos Records.

His performances are often described as immersive and multidimensional, perfectly suited to Schumann’s expressive, symphonic concerto.

Quick Guide: Dates, Times & Booking

Concert 1

• Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
• Time: 19:00
• Venue: Playhouse Opera Theatre, 231 Anton Lembede Street, Durban
• Book tickets: click here

Concert 2

• Date: Thursday, 18 June 2026
• Time: 19:00
• Venue: Playhouse Opera Theatre, 231 Anton Lembede Street, Durban
• Book tickets: click here

Season Tickets: Available via the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra office:
031 369 9437 / 8 | info@kznphil.org.za

Single tickets are also available online or at the door.

Two nights. Two unique musical journeys. One unforgettable Winter Season.
We look forward to sharing these exceptional evenings of live orchestral music with you.