Media release: Belgian pianist and composer returns to Sydney Opera House
Announcement posted by Jameson & Co 02 Feb 2026
Big Deal Touring is proud to announce the 2026 return of Belgian pianist and composer Daniel Verstappen, to the Sydney Opera House.
Known for his dynamic fusion of classical tradition and contemporary cinematic sound, this internationally acclaimed artist will perform two exclusive concerts in the one day, on Saturday, May 2. Joining him is celebrated Australian violinist Yena Choi, one of the country's most versatile and sought-after performers.
Verstappen's last appearance at Sydney Opera House in April 2024 drew an enthusiastic response from audiences and distinguished guests, including Her Excellency the Hon. Margaret Beazley, Governor of New South Wales. His upcoming return marks his only Australian performances in 2026 as he continues his global Reconnection tour, which has travelled through Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand.
The programme features Verstappen's own original compositions - deeply cinematic in character - alongside a refined selection of iconic film music by composers such as Hans Zimmer (Interstellar, Time), Ennio Morricone (Cinema Paradiso, Gabriel's Oboe), Nino Rota (The Godfather) and others.
Verstappen has carved a unique place in international contemporary-classical music; his résumé includes collaborations with Andrea Bocelli, Ennio Morricone, Hans Zimmer, Wyclef Jean, Angie Stone and Natalie Imbruglia - and appearances for Their Majesties King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium.
Australian violinist Yena Choi brings her own extraordinary pedigree to the stage, having performed with all major Australian orchestras as well as the Royal Opera House Orchestra (London), Academy of St Martin in the Fields, and the BBC Concert Orchestra. Her collaborations span artists from Ed Sheeran and Michael Bublé to Hans Zimmer and Diana Krall.
Together, Verstappen and Choi offer Sydney audiences a rare and emotionally resonant musical experience, uniting classical virtuosity with cinematic scope - performed for one day only at the Sydney Opera House.
** Daniel Verstappen will be in Sydney and available for interviews on February 17 and 18. Please contact the below to register your interest.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Erin Jameson | erin(at)jamesonandco(dotcom | +61 419 323 663
CONCERT DETAILS:
SATURDAY, MAY 2
Daniel Verstappen: The Cinematic Piano Experience (with special guest violinist Yena Choi)
Venue: Utzon Room, Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, SYDNEY
Times: 3.00pm & 7.00pm
Tickets: $129 ($79 concession)
On sale: Monday, February 9 - 9am
Bookings: https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/classical-music/daniel-verstappen-cinematic-piano-experience
ARTIST BIOS & LINKS
Daniel Verstappen — Piano
Belgian pianist-composer Daniel Verstappen is renowned for blending classical refinement with contemporary cinematic sound. A graduate of Belgium's prestigious Lemmens Institute, he has toured internationally across Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the USA, performing at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Philharmonie Luxembourg, and Harpa Concert Hall.
Verstappen has collaborated with Andrea Bocelli, Ennio Morricone, Hans Zimmer, Wyclef Jean, Angie Stone, Anastacia and Natalie Imbruglia, and has performed for Their Majesties King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium. His work bridges cultures and generations, inviting audiences into an immersive, modern vision of classical music.
Yena Choi — Violin
Australian violinist Yena Choi is celebrated for her versatility across classical, contemporary, and popular music. A graduate of the Australian National Academy of Music, she has appeared with all major Australian orchestras as well as the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House (London), the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, and the BBC Concert Orchestra.
Her wide-ranging collaborations include Ed Sheeran, Hans Zimmer, Eminem, Michael Bublé, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Hugh Jackman, and more. She was also a violinist in the Australian production of Hamilton and serves as concertmaster of the Dan Fontaine Orchestra.