Experience the genius of A.R. Rahman like never before, performed live by an 80-piece symphony orchestra in a unique, narrated concert experience.
SYDNEY, Australia, 28 July 2025 – The Australian Indian Orchestra (AIO), Australia’s only symphony orchestra dedicated to Indian music, is thrilled to announce its upcoming spectacle, “A.R. Rahman in Symphony.” This highly anticipated event will take place on **Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the prestigious Verbrugghen Hall, Sydney Conservatorium of Music.**
Building on its successful prior performances, the AIO continues to champion the vibrant fusion of Australian and Indian musical traditions. “A.R. Rahman in Symphony” offers a distinct and immersive concert format, providing audiences with an unprecedented journey through the illustrious career of the “Mozart of Madras.”
The evening will see the musical magic of A.R. Rahman brought to life by a magnificent 80-piece symphony orchestra, comprising some of Sydney’s finest Western and Indian classical musicians.
Unlike previous AIO concerts, this unique program is a purely instrumental exploration of Rahman’s compositions, allowing the intricate layers and melodies of his work to shine through the grandeur of a full orchestra.
Guiding this musical odyssey is the AIO’s Artistic Director and Conductor, Suraj Nagaraj.
At just 22 years old, Suraj has meticulously arranged the entire orchestral program and will narrate Rahman’s musical journey – from his early commercial jingles to his most iconic blockbuster film scores. This narrative approach promises to offer insightful context and a deeper appreciation for Rahman’s groundbreaking contributions to global music.
“Bringing A.R. Rahman’s vast and diverse repertoire to a full symphonic scale has been a monumental, yet incredibly rewarding mission,” says Suraj Nagaraj. “This concert is designed to immerse the audience in the brilliance of his compositions, and take them on a journey through his transformation as a composer.
The AIO, co-founded by brothers Suraj and Concertmaster Sagar Nagaraj, continues its mission to foster cultural connection through music. Sagar, an accomplished violinist who has performed with the Australian World Orchestra, emphasizes the significance of this unique offering: “This is a new chapter for the AIO, showcasing the versatility and richness of Indian music within a grand orchestral setting. To dedicate an entire concert to the instrumental genius of A.R. Rahman, performed by an 80-piece orchestra, is truly a landmark event.”
The concert will feature orchestral renditions of beloved pieces from Rahman’s celebrated Tamil and Hindi films, including selections from blockbusters like Dil Se, Lagaan, Ponniyin Selvan, and more. “A.R. Rahman in Symphony” is an essential experience for music lovers, offering a profound appreciation for one of the world’s most influential composers.
Tickets are on sale now at AIO.ORG.AU
About the Australian Indian Orchestra:
The AIO is Australia’s first and only Symphony Orchestra dedicated to performing Indian music. Formed in 2023 by brothers Sagar and Suraj Nagaraj, the AIO brings Australian and Indian musicians together to create truly unique musical experiences. Celebrating the diversity and versatility of Australia’s cultural fabric, the AIO aims to be a cultural gem and an inspiration for future generations of musicians in Australia and globally.
- Media Contact:
- Sagar Nagaraj, Co-founder
- Australian Indian Orchestra
- ausindorchestra@gmail.com
- +61434204870
