Looking for something different to do in Milan in the coming months? We’ve compiled a list of the most interesting classical music events, including candlelight concerts, performances by major orchestras, shows at La Scala, and family-friendly events. Find out what to mark on your calendar from September through December 2026.
Let yourself be surprised by MITO SettembreMusica
MITO SettembreMusica is now in its final days: the festival, which has brought some of classical music’s most beloved works to Milan, concludes on September 20. Among the final events not to be missed are Bach’s Goldberg Variations, performed by David Fray on September 18, and the closing concert dedicated to Brahms, scheduled for September 19.
Experience the magic of a Candlelight concert
Set against the backdrop of historic venues and the soft glow of thousands of candles, Milan hosts concerts that transform listening into an immersive experience. The Candlelight series features reinterpretations of great classical compositions, contemporary melodies, and famous soundtracks, with events scheduled between September and December.
Among the most evocative evenings are “Candlelight: Halloween Classics” on October 30 at the Auditorium San Fedele, and the concerts dedicated to Christmas music, scheduled for December 19 and 20. An intimate and engaging experience, perfect for a special evening.
Step into the World of La Scala
Let yourself be captivated by the new season at Teatro alla Scala. Coming in December are the “Under 30” preview of *Otello*, scheduled for December 4, and the ballet *The Nutcracker*, with a preview on December 15. On December 20, Myung-Whun Chung will conduct Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony for the traditional Christmas Concert.
For those under 36, starting September 30, it will also be possible to purchase the Under30/35 Pass for the new season online for 10 euros.
Listen to the great orchestras at the Auditorium in Milan
This fall,the Milan Symphony Orchestra will presenta series of concerts dedicated to the great music of Russia and Eastern Europeat the Fondazione Cariplo Auditorium in Milan . Scheduled for October are works by Tchaikovsky, Khachaturian, and Shostakovich, featuring the young pianist Alexandra Dovgan and conductor Emmanuel Tjeknavorian. An ideal event for anyone who wants to experience a true symphony orchestra live.
Introducing Children to Classical Music
At the Teatro Dal Verme, “I Piccoli Pomeriggi Musicali” transforms well-known stories into concert-performances designed for the whole family. The fall season also explores Beethoven’s life through fairy tales and great classics, featuring *The Seven Crows* on October 25, *Tom Thumb* on November 22, and *The Tin Soldier* on December 20. Tickets start at 5 euros for children.
Experience a concert blending dance and piano
On October 18, the “Le Perle della Domenica” series kicks off its season at the Conservatory’s Sala Verdi with “Falling from the Sky,” a performance that combines dance and piano. Bach, Schubert, Chopin, and Mahler engage in a dialogue with pieces by David Bowie, Leonard Cohen, and Prince, creating an original journey through classical music and the contemporary repertoire.
Listen to Handel’s Messiah
Among the most anticipated events of the holiday season is Handel’s Messiah, scheduled for December 18 and 20 at the Auditorium in Milan. The Milan Symphony Orchestra and Symphony Chorus will perform one of the most beloved masterpieces of the Baroque repertoire in a solemn and spectacular evening that showcases the full power of choral music.
Closing out 2026 to the notes of Beethoven’s Ninth
For those who want to end the year with a special evening, the Milan Auditorium presents Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony . The Milan Symphony Orchestra and Chorus will perform the “Ode to Joy,” one of the most famous and symbolic finales in the classical repertoire.
From candlelit halls to Milan’s grand theaters, music will accompany the city through the end of the year with events for every kind of audience. All that’s left is to choose your evening and let yourself be captivated by the melodies of the great composers, performed live.
