June 15 2026

Concert Hall

Sydney Opera House

Emerging from a dimly lit haze, Chris Botti and his stellar band captivated an eager audience. Opening Gabriel’s Oboe with soaring phrases and Botti’s signature, crystal-pure trumpet sound, the night was primed for elite entertainment. Resplendent in a royal purple blazer, Botti charmed the crowd early, joking that he would “play some jazz after one more slow one” before proudly introducing his powerhouse band, fresh off a run at The Blue Note in Tokyo.

On keys, Julius Rodriguez aka ‘Orange Julius’, a phenomenal player, moved effortlessly between the grand piano and synths, tackling every musical style with mind-blowing technical flair. Barry Stephenson delivered magic on both electric and double bass, his sensitive duo moments with Botti transformed the massive venue into an intimate chamber music experience for 2,000 people. Lee Pearson, Spyro Gyra and Botti drummer was a force of nature. Sitting, standing, clapping, and joking around, his infectious energy and razor-sharp precision propelled the entire show forward.

The setlist was a journey. Standards like Someday My Prince Will Come featured a bass solo that reached straight into the stratosphere. After When I Fall In Love, Botti humorously described the vibe as a “Chuck Mangione tribute meets Van Halen gig.” Fans were treated to a thrilling, extended version of Irresistible Bliss and the warm, honeyed tones of Italia, both older Botti originals.

Four world-class guest artists featured and delivered. Mark Whitfield, legendary guitarist prowled the stage, radiating pure joy through every soulful, electrified lick. Virtuoso violinist Caroline Campbell, stunning in gold lurex, danced in perfect harmony with Botti’s trumpet lines before unleashing a fabulous solo medley of film and pop classics. From Chicago, singer-songwriter John Splithoff, in Sydney for his own show, was encouraged by Botti to share a rendition of his 2021 hit Raye.

Operatic tenor Fernando Varela brought the house down for the concert finales, Nessun Dorma and Time to Say Goodbye, unleashing a full and powerful voice that could effortlessly reverberate even without amplification. The pinnacles of the night were a refined trumpet and guitar duet of Hallelujah, followed by a joyous crowd snap-and-sing-along to How Deep Is Your Love, driven by Pearson’s enthusiastic conducting. Seamlessly blending friendly banter with world-class musicianship, this eclectic, unforgettable show gave Sydney fans the ultimate night out!