The Australian Open and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) have come together to reimagine the tournament’s signature theme, Sound of the AO, which will premiere in spectacular fashion at AO 2026.
“The Sound of the AO” was arranged by a renowned composer and conductor Nicholas Buc and recorded by 55 MSO musicians at the Iwaki Auditorium in Melbourne. The final composition combines orchestral power with a contemporary cinematic touch and aims to capture the energy and emotions of the Australian Open.
Xavier MühlebachHead of Original Content at Tennis Australia, said: “This collaboration is a tribute to Melbourne at its best, two of the city’s most iconic institutions coming together to deliver an experience unlike anything fans have seen or heard before.”
“Nicholas Buc and the incredible orchestra have reimagined the Australian Open theme and given it an epic, cinematic treatment that feels fresh, vibrant and entirely appropriate for AO 2026. The result is a piece that reflects the rhythm of a tennis match itself – the tension, release, the dramatic highs and lows – and truly captures the spirit of the Australian Open.”
“We want every moment at the Australian Open to feel unforgettable, from the first notes of the light and sound show Rod Laver Arena“Fans will feel the emotion, tension and excitement of AO in a whole new way.”
Managing Director of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Richard Wigley said: “The MSO’s partnership with the Australian Open showcases everything Melbourne does best – world-class music and sport. Taking the MSO’s sound beyond the concert hall and into this iconic arena reflects who we are as an orchestra – creative, collaborative and a proud part of our city’s identity.”
An accompanying film clip was produced on NantStudio’s state-of-the-art LED stage in Docklands, where the orchestra performed in front of an expansive floor-to-ceiling display of AO-inspired imagery, enhancing the impact of the new score.
The AO’s new sound and new video will be featured prominently in the daily newspaper Light and sound show which opens every evening in the Rod Laver Arena and offers fans a dynamic, multi-sensory welcome to the Grand Slam.
The production arm of Tennis Australia, AO originalshas also produced a short film celebrating the collaboration, showing the creative process, from the recording sessions to behind-the-scenes footage of the orchestra’s performance.
The Australian Open main draw begins on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The 2026 MSO season begins on January 24, 2026, join us mso.com.au.