Concerto for Classical Accordion
Rock. Funk. A Pulitzer Prize. An accordion.
Thursday 1 Oct 2026
6:00pm
Federation Concert Hall
Nipaluna / Hobart
Overview
Australian composer Holly Harrison, known for her rock-inspired, funk-influenced work, has written a piece for outrageously talented accordionist James Crabb.
The Scottish virtuoso then turns his attention to a favourite work by tango composer Astor Piazzolla: Libertango.
The concert opens with Aaron Copland’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Appalachian Spring.
On the podium is Benjamin Northey, whose mid-performance cricket catch on his last TSO visit went viral. Who knows what he’ll get up to this time? William Newbery hosts.
Perfect for
- First-timers
- Anyone needing a 1-hour music fix
- Those who like their symphonies with a side of humour
About the music
Get a feel for the concert series
6pm Series
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Schedule
- 5:30pm Doors
- 6:00pm Start
- 7:00pm Ends
Tickets
One off tickets
- Book 2-for-1
- Adult $49
- Student $35
- 17 and under $15
- Concession and Seniors discounts are available.
Packages
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Venue
Federation Concert Hall
Ground Floor/1 Davey St, Hobart TAS 7000 (Access via Hotel Grand Chancellor)
Home of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra since 2001. The distinctive curve, golden Tasmanian timber, contemporary design and waterfront location set the tone for the ultimate concert experience.
This event takes place in the south, where Kunanyi stands above the meeting of river and sea
Wheelchair accessible
Ramped or step free entry
Level access
Venue presents mobility challenges
Accessible toilets
Assistive listening (hearing loop)
$0 Companion Card holder tickets
Note that if you can only walk/mobilise for short distances, we recommend seating in the stalls – lifts are not close to the main doors.
Artists
Led by
Australian conductor Benjamin Northey is Chief Conductor of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and a regular collaborator with Australia’s major orchestras. Known for his energy, versatility and engaging style, he works across classical, opera and contemporary music, and is a passionate advocate for new Australian works and music education.
Featuring
James Crabb
Classical accordion
Scottish-born accordion virtuoso James Crabb is one of the world’s leading champions of his instrument. A prize-winning soloist, he has performed with major orchestras and at festivals worldwide. Renowned for his expressive playing and love of Astor Piazzolla’s music, he brings warmth, colour and dazzling skill to every performance.
William Newbery
Host
Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
Concert notes
More details about the music and artists will be included in the concert notes. These will be emailed to ticketholders before the concert.
First concert?
We love welcoming new people to our concerts! Here we answer some common questions about what to expect.
Some people like to be right up the front where they can see the perspiration on musicians’ foreheads. Others enjoy being up the back, with an elevated view of the entire orchestra.
While all seats in the hall allow for a great concert experience, you can choose to pay extra for the most popular seats in the house. These tend to be closer to the stage while allowing great views of the orchestra and soloists, who almost always perform on the lefthand side of the stage (when viewed from the audience).
We recommend arriving 30 minutes before the concert and allowing time for any traffic or parking issues (and to take advantage of our on-site bar).
If you’re running late, don’t panic. Our friendly staff will be there to usher you to your seat at the earliest appropriate moment.
You’re welcome to dress up to the nines, but we don’t expect you to. There’s no dress code. Jeans are as appropriate as tuxedos, and sneakers are as accepted as heels.
If you choose to have your ticket emailed to you, you do not have to print it. Your email ticket will have a QR code that our ushers can scan on the night. We suggest ‘flagging’ the email in your inbox so you can easily find it on the night.
Simply call, visit or email the Box Office and we’ll either re-send your tickets or arrange for them to be collected on the night.
The TSO Box Office is open 10am – 4pm Monday to Friday and you can email boxoffice@tso.com.au or call us on 1800 001 190.
You are very welcome to pass your tickets on to friends or family to use.
If you are unable to attend a concert, you may like to return your tickets to the TSO as a charitable donation. Please email boxoffice@tso.com.au or call us on 1800 001 190 (10am – 4pm Monday to Friday).
Concerts in the Federation Concert Hall have access to a Hearing Loop; accessible seating, toilets and theatre access; and assistance animals are welcome.
For assistance please contact our friendly Box Office team at boxoffice@tso.com.au or phone 1800 001 190 (10am – 4pm Monday to Friday).
Wheelchair seating spots can be booked via our Box Office. Please phone 1800 001 190 (10am – 4pm Monday to Friday) or email boxoffice@tso.com.au.
Please note, wheelchair seats cannot be booked online.
Watch this concert online at TSO On Demand, our streaming platform for all TSO content.
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