When George met Arnold

These two geniuses of the 20th century struck up an unlikely friendship, playing tennis together every week, discussing music, art, love and the political situation in Europe.

When George Met Arnold is a unique event which combines a newly created film with live performance of selected works by both composers to tell the story of this remarkable relationship. The Sydney Symphony is joined by co-creators pianist Simon Tedeschi and conductor Roger Benedict.

2024 is the 150th anniversary of Schoenberg’s birth and also the 100th anniversary of the premiere of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue –the perfect moment to present this poignant story of memory, trauma, friendship, humour and hope, and above all the power of music.

Presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra

Featuring works by GERSHWIN and SCHOENBERG, including excerpts from Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F and Porgy & Bess, and Schoenberg’s Piano Concerto, Pelléas and Mélisande and Five Pieces for Orchestra.

Roger Benedict conductor
Simon Tedeschi piano