On Thursday 10 September 2026 at 19:00, Konserthuset Stockholm will open its doors to a historic event—the inauguration of its 100th anniversary season. This marks a century since the concert hall’s opening in 1926 and coincides with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra’s 125th anniversary in 2027. The 2026/27 season thus becomes a double celebration, shaped by musical tradition and cultural significance. There will be an additional opportunity to experience the opening program on Saturday 12 September 2026 at 15:00.
The opening concert takes place in the presence of Their Majesties The King and Queen, further emphasizing the national importance of the event. Chief conductor Ryan Bancroft, entering his fourth season with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and recently extended through spring 2030, will lead the orchestra through an ambitious and carefully selected program. Bancroft’s well-known commitment to Swedish music is clearly reflected in the repertoire choices and his ongoing work with the orchestra.
A varied program in the spirit of the jubilee
The evening’s program brings together newly composed music with beloved masterpieces and highlights Swedish elements within art music. The concert opens with "blue cathedral" by American composer Jennifer Higdon—an atmospheric piece whose sounds reflect the iconic blue interior of the concert hall. Next comes Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s virtuosic Violin Concerto with acclaimed Norwegian violinist Vilde Frang as soloist. Frang is a recurring and valued guest with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and adds her personal expression to a work she has made her international hallmark.
This is followed by the world premiere of "Hosanna"—a new commission by Swedish-Serbian composer Djuro Zivkovic, who has been named composer of the season at Konserthuset 2026/27. Zivkovic’s music will be heard on several occasions throughout the year. Further Swedish presence is featured in Anders Hillborg’s evocative work "...lontana in sonno...," where soprano Matilda Sterby contributes her expressive voice to the concert’s multifaceted whole.
The concert concludes with Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 5, loved for its monumental power and emotional depth. Ryan Bancroft has frequently conducted Sibelius abroad, but this will be among the few occasions he interprets the Finnish master’s music at home with the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. Bancroft’s special appreciation for Sibelius is evident, and enthusiasm for this performance in Stockholm is high.
The two jubilee concerts not only represent a celebration of the past but also a forward-looking statement: the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra, under Bancroft’s leadership and with a focus on Swedish and contemporary repertoire, is moving towards a new era. The presence of international guests, new commissioned works, and classical cornerstones create an opening night that unites history with artistic development.
- Date: Thursday 10 September 2026 at 19:00 and Saturday 12 September 2026 at 15:00
- Conductor: Ryan Bancroft
- Soloists: Vilde Frang (violin), Matilda Sterby (soprano)
- Program:
- Jennifer Higdon: blue cathedral
- Erich Wolfgang Korngold: Violin Concerto (soloist Vilde Frang)
- Djuro Zivkovic: Hosanna (world premiere)
- Anders Hillborg: ...lontana in sonno... (soloist Matilda Sterby)
- Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 5
This historic season opener thus provides a fitting tribute to one of Europe’s most venerable concert halls and its orchestra. As the venue enters its second century, a season awaits in Stockholm marked by reflection, celebration, and renewed artistic ambition.
