Affordable daytime concerts bring exceptional classical music to the heritage lawns in a relaxed setting, with free tickets for U18s.
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO)’s community-focused initiative, MSO+, and Abbotsford Convent have announced a new partnership presenting Convent Sounds, a series of daytime classical music performances on the Convent’s heritage lawns.
Designed for seasoned classical music lovers and curious newcomers of all ages, Convent Sounds is free for under 18s and capped at $20 for everyone else, thanks to support from the Robert Salzer Foundation.
Launching this Spring, Convent Sounds will feature two daytime concerts – 25 October and 6 December – designed to make live orchestral music affordable and easy to enjoy.
Audiences can settle in on the Convent’s Heritage lawns and experience outstanding musicians in one of Melbourne’s most distinctive cultural settings, with picnic packages, food and bar offerings available to purchase on the day. Guests are also welcome to bring their own picnic.
The series will open on Sunday 25 October, 3-5pm, with a brass ensemble featuring musicians from the MSO and the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM). The performance has a special connection to its setting, with Abbotsford Convent being home to ANAM.
From Baroque masterpieces to the stunning screen music of John Williams, the October brass concert will span centuries of musical storytelling, including Prokofiev’s epic portrayal of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet.
On Sunday 6 December, Convent Sounds returns with a festive community singalong, bringing musicians and audiences together for a joyful end-of-year celebration.
Abbotsford Convent CEO Justine Hyde said the Convent’s partnership with MSO+ would bring together two organisations with a shared commitment to making culture accessible.
“Classical music has a wonderful history at Abbotsford Convent, so we’re thrilled to be bringing it back to the lawns in a way that feels relaxed, welcoming and open to everyone,” Ms Hyde said.
“Convent Sounds is about removing some of the barriers that can surround classical music. You can bring a picnic, sit on the grass, bring the family or meet friends and hear extraordinary musicians in a beautiful heritage setting.”
MSO+ is an initiative of the MSO created to deepen connections with communities across Melbourne and regional Victoria through accessible performances with broad appeal.
As the MSO celebrates 120 years in 2026, Convent Sounds continues one of the Orchestra’s longest traditions: taking live music beyond the concert hall and into Melbourne’s outdoor spaces. The MSO’s free outdoor concert tradition began in 1929 and continues today through its Sidney Myer Free Concerts as an important part of how the Orchestra connects with its community.
MSO veteran violinist and MSO+ Creative Director Monica Curro said Convent Sounds builds on that legacy by expanding how and where audiences can experience orchestral music.
“Some of the MSO’s most memorable performances have taken place beyond the concert hall, with people gathering outdoors to experience music together,” Ms Curro said.
“Convent Sounds carries that tradition into a beautiful new setting. It’s relaxed, affordable and open to everyone – another way for the MSO to meet people where they are and share extraordinary live music.”
MSO CEO Richard Wigley said ‘We are delighted to be partnering with Abbotsford Convent to bring music to their wonderful spaces; MSO+ is the perfect pathway to Melbourne’s top musicians being heard across the city’
Convent Sounds has been made possible thanks to a grant from the Robert Salzer Foundation.
CONVENT SOUNDS
Sunday 25 October, 3.30pm – 5pm
11-piece brass ensemble comprised of musicians from MSO and ANAM
Abbotsford Convent Heritage Garden
Sunday 6 December, 3.30pm – 5pm
Festive community singalong featuring musicians from MSO and ANAM
Abbotsford Convent Heritage Garden