On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s annual Open House & Free Concert returns to Roy Thomson Hall. It’s the unofficial first concert of the 2025/26 season.
The day begins early at 10 a.m. with activities in the lobby for all ages that include performances by TSO musicians and guests artists, and members of the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra, along with a range of interactive activities.
After the morning lobby activities, the day finishes with a 60-minute performance at 2 p.m. by the full orchestra conducted by TSO Music Director Gustavo Gimeno and TSO Barrett Principal Education Conductor & Community Ambassador Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser. On the program is varied range of music, including previews of some of the repertoire from the TSO’s 2025/26 concert season.
“This is where the season begins — it all starts now,” says Mark Williams, Beck Family CEO of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
“Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Open House is your invitation to step into a new season with your orchestra. We’re here to celebrate the city we serve, and to make sure everyone feels at home with the TSO. Today, you’re part of something bigger: a shared cultural experience that connects Toronto to the world.”
Highlights of the Day
Open House (10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)
Lobby Performances
- Performances by TSO and TSYO chamber ensembles
- Dance presentations from Joy of Dance
- Symphony Storytime with Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser and a TSO Quartet
- Conducting workshop with RBC Resident Conductor & TSYO Conductor Nicholas Sharma
Activity Stations
For Young People
- Face painting
- Long & McQuade Instrument Discovery Zone
- Music Playground
- Compose Your Own Music station
For All Ages
- Self-guided building tours available in English, French, Mandarin, and Cantonese
- Write a postcard to a musician
- TSO video station
- Photo booth
No tickets or reservations are required for the morning activities; the Roy Thomson Hall doors will be open from 10:00am to 1:30pm for any attendees who wish to join the fun.
Free Concert (2:00 p.m.)
- Date and time: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 2:00–3:00pm
- Location: Roy Thomson Hall
- Conductors: Gustavo Gimeno and Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser
- Tickets: Free; registration required
This event is part of Ontario Culture Days.
Tickets are required for this free performance, and with an expected crowd of more than 2,000 patrons, early registration on September 8 is recommended. Guests are asked to RSVP beginning on September 8, 2025 to reserve seats. RSVP online or by contacting TSO Patron Services at 416.598.3375, Mon–Fri, 9:30am–5:00pm.
- Find concert details and free tickets [HERE].
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