Taking the kids to the orchestra might sound like a big outing, but sometimes it turns out to be one of those magical family moments you didn’t expect. This September, our friends at the Sydney Symphony Orchestra are bringing a beautiful family concert to the Sydney Opera House with a performance of Carnival of the Animals that is designed especially for children.
Originally written by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, Carnival of the Animals is one of the most playful pieces of classical music ever written. Each section of the music represents a different animal, and the orchestra brings them to life using their instruments. There are elephants stomping along in the deep sounds of the double bass, hens clucking through quick piano and string notes, and the graceful swan gliding along through a beautiful cello melody. It feels a little like a musical trip to the zoo, where every new movement introduces another creature.
For families, this is a wonderful way to introduce children to live classical music. The concert is recommended for children aged 5 to 12, and it is designed to spark curiosity and imagination while helping kids discover the different sounds of the orchestra. Instead of sitting quietly wondering what is going on, children can listen for animals and notice how different instruments create different personalities in the music.
This particular performance also includes a special piece called Animalia by Australian composer Alex Turley. It adds an Australian twist to the program by weaving in sounds inspired by our own wildlife. It is a lovely way for children to connect the music to animals they may already know and love.
The concert will be conducted by Benjamin Northey, Conductor in Residence with the orchestra. His warm and engaging style makes these family concerts feel welcoming and accessible for first time concertgoers.
Another thoughtful feature is the relaxed performance scheduled for the afternoon. This version has a smaller audience and adjusted lighting, creating a calmer environment for children who may prefer a more relaxed setting, including those with sensory sensitivities.
As parents, we are always looking for experiences that spark curiosity in our children and give them something new to discover. A live orchestra can do exactly that. Watching musicians work together, hearing the music fill the room, and spotting each animal in the score can turn into a memory your child talks about long after the day is over.
If you are looking for a family outing that is a little different this year, this concert might be just the ticket. Sometimes the best learning happens when it feels like pure fun.
Autism Advisory & Support Service are not the point of contact for this event. for more information and to secure your tickets head to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra website HERE
