When John Painter founded the Australian Chamber Orchestra in 1975, it was quickly embraced by the musical community as one of the best and most versatile of our larger ensembles. Australian violinist Richard Tognetti, then just a rookie from Wollongong, was soon appointed to the helm of the ensemble, and has since overseen the ACO’s artistic growth and helped cement its place on the international stage. The orchestra today announced its 2015 season, which will celebrate the orchestra’s 40th anniversary, as well as Tognetti’s 25th.

“This year we take on 450 years of music by 28 composers from 11 countries, performed by more than 30 guest artists, not to mention the 17 core members of the ACO,” said Tognetti. “I welcome you to join us at any of our concerts as we perform around Australia and overseas in our 40th birthday year!”

Richard Tognetti - Photo by Anthony Browell.jpg

In a fitting cycle, the ACO will revisit Mozart’s three final symphonies, which it first performed in 1990 under the baton of the late lamented Frans Brüggen. This time though, Tognetti himself will conduct.

“The symphonies represent a landmark in...