ABC Classic is marking its 50th year of broadcasting in 2026 with a year-long celebration featuring special concerts, new programs, and the return of the Young Performers Awards. The lineup includes new hosts like pianist Andrea Lam and journalist Leigh Sales, alongside expanded live broadcasts from across Australia. Celebrations kick off on January 24 with a full day of retrospective programming.
Overview of Celebrations
ABC Classic, Australia's national classical music station, will honor five decades on air throughout 2026. The anniversary program includes a mix of archival content, live events, and fresh initiatives to engage listeners nationwide. Head of ABC Classic and ABC Jazz, Philip Noyce, stated, "It's an honour to be part of ABC Classic at such a significant moment in our history. As we celebrate 50 years of broadcasting, we're proud to reflect on the legacy of this iconic network while looking ahead to its future."
Key highlights feature a special edition of the ABC Classic 100 countdown in June, performed live with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. The network will also host a landmark concert at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl and revive the ABC Young Performers Awards, open to instrumentalists aged 31 and under. This competition, running for over 80 years, has launched careers of artists like Amy Dickson and Simon Tedeschi. The grand final is set for November 2026.
New Programming and Hosts
New additions to the schedule include 'The Art of the Piano' hosted by Andrea Lam on Sunday evenings, drawing from her experience on ABC TV's The Piano. Leigh Sales will host a Saturday program during the anniversary period, bringing her passion for classical music. Other series cover topics like Minimalism and the 100th anniversary of Dame Joan Sutherland's birth.
The weekday and weekend schedules retain staples like ABC Classic Breakfast with Megan Burslem and introduce shows such as Unwind with Greta Bradman and Australia Plays with Mairi Nicolson, focusing on Australian talent. ABC Classic plans to broadcast over 200 concerts from all states and territories, doubling opera productions and commissioning new works by Australian composers.
Broader Impact
This milestone underscores ABC Classic's role in supporting classical music in Australia, with increased focus on emerging artists and regional performances. Listeners can expect a blend of history and innovation throughout the year.