The Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra (GSO), in partnership with the Xinghai Concert Hall, officially announced its 2025/2026 Season at a press conference on July 19, 2025.
A highlight of the season is a commemorative concert on September 26, 2025, marking the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the War against Japanese Aggression and ot the Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 120th birth anniversary of "People's Musician" Xian Xinghai, a renowned Chinese musician. This performance will honor the legacy of three generations of Chinese artists at Xinghai Concert Hall — the only venue in China named after Xian.
The season will also conclude the "Forever Beethoven" series, celebrating the 255th anniversary of the composer's birth and anticipating a full live recording release of his symphonic works in 2027.
Additionally, thematic performances will mark key musical anniversaries, including the 160th anniversary of Jean Sibelius' birth, the 50th Anniversary of Dmitri Shostakovich's death, the 170th anniversary of Robert Schumann's birth, and the 50th Anniversary of Benjamin Britten's death.
The GSO continues to promote young musicians, welcoming debut performances by rising stars such as Karen Gomyo, Thomas Lefort, and Felicitase Schiffner. Regional collaborations will expand through partnerships with the Zhuhai Huafan & CPAA Grand Theater and Poly Theater Shenzhen, extending the "Twin Cities Music Season" initiative. The orchestra will also host the 2026 Youth Music Culture The Greater Bay Area (YMCG), fostering a global platform for young musicians.
The orchestra is also deepening its integration with public cultural spaces. The opening of Guangzhou Metro's Ersha Island Station in June 2025 introduces a new cultural landmark: "Island of Music." Meanwhile, the Music Terminal program at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport continues to evolve as a gateway for global cultural engagement.
Community-focused programs remain central to GSO's mission. Popular series such as Pops Concerts, Music Happy Hour, Enter the World of the Symphony, and Children's Concert will return with refreshed themes, guided concerts, immersive theater, and interactive performances aimed at engaging broader, younger audiences with both classical and contemporary music.