One of the world’s most prestigious musical traditions, the Vienna New Year’s Concert has captivated audiences globally for nearly two centuries. This year, the concert brings the authentic Viennese sound to Shanghai, synchronized with the performance at Vienna’s Golden Hall, offering local audiences a rare opportunity to experience the charm and elegance of the “World Capital of Music.”

The Vienna Royal Symphony Orchestra, a first-class ensemble certified by the Association of Austrian Music, has performed regularly at the Golden Hall and, since its debut in China in 2019, has won acclaim for its exceptional artistry and signature “Viennese Sound.” Alongside Strauss family classics, the concert features masterpieces by Mozart, Haydn, and other giants of classical music, recreating the grandeur of Viennese court music for audiences in Shanghai.

Program Highlights

Part I

• Chinese Song: Spring Festival Overture
• W.A. Mozart: Overture “La clemenza di Tito”
• W.A. Mozart: Vado ma dove
• C. Saint-Saëns: Introduction & Rondo capriccioso for Violin and Orchestra
• J. Strauss: “Rosen aus dem Süden,” Op. 388
• J. Offenbach: Overture to the Operetta “Orpheus in the Underworld”
• L. Danza: Funiculi, Funicula

Intermission

Part II

• J. Strauss: Ouvertüre zu “Die Fledermaus”
• J. Strauss: Aria “Ich lade gern mir Gäste ein...” from Die Fledermaus
• P. Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake, Op. 20
• G. Bizet: Suite from the Opera Carmen – “Prelude 1” & “Entr’acte”
• G. Bizet: Aria “Habanera” from Carmen
• J. Strauss: An der schönen blauen Donau, Op. 314
• Chinese Song: Jasmine Flower

About the Orchestra

The Vienna Royal Symphony Orchestra is renowned for its rich tonal palette, refined expression, and elegant performance style. As Austria’s artistic ambassador, it has performed at world-famous festivals including Salzburg and Munich and accompanied the Austrian royal family on official visits worldwide. With a repertoire spanning over 2,000 works from the Baroque to contemporary periods, the orchestra is celebrated for delivering the authentic charm of Austrian music both in Europe and abroad.

Artistic Leadership & Featured Artists

Dariusz Mikulski, Chief Conductor:

A distinguished contemporary maestro and horn player, Mikulski is celebrated for his musical intuition, acute hearing, and charismatic stage presence. He has led major orchestras in Europe and Asia and has received multiple accolades, including Poland’s Gloria Artis Medal.

Aleksandra Guzio, Mezzo-Soprano

Renowned for her performances across Europe, Guzio has appeared in operas including Die Fledermaus, The Merry Widow, and Carmen, and participated in masterclasses with world-class musicians.

Kamil Zawadzki, Concertmaster

An exceptionally gifted violinist, Zawadzki has collaborated with top European orchestras and won prestigious competitions, gaining recognition for his interpretation of Mozart and classical violin repertoire.

Seven Highlights of the Concert

1. Classic repertoire featuring Strauss, Mozart, Brahms, Bizet
2. Double wind section creating grand and brilliant acoustics
3. Young world-class musicians delivering technically superb performances
4. Balance of tradition and individual artistic expression
5. Creative and imaginative interpretations adapted to live performance
6. Vast repertoire spanning Baroque to contemporary music
7. Dynamic percussion highlighting rhythmic brilliance in Strauss polkas

This Shanghai performance promises an elegant and joyous start to 2026, inviting audiences to celebrate the new year immersed in the romance and splendor of Viennese musical tradition.