This year, music forms a key part of the Brisbane Open House program, with performances and rehearsals happening across the city. From youth orchestras and community bands to rooftop jazz and radio station tours, it’s an opportunity to experience Brisbane through sound as well as structure.
4ZZZ Open Studio Tours – Fortitude Valley
Saturday 19 July, 10:00am–3:00pm | Tours every 20 mins
Enter via 264 Barry Parade
Get inside the beating heart of Brisbane’s alternative music scene. Community radio legends 4ZZZ have been broadcasting since 1975—and this is your rare chance to step behind the mic. Take a guided tour of their iconic Fortitude Valley headquarters, learn about the building’s radical past (once owned by the Communist Party), and discover how volunteers keep the station loud and proud on 102.1FM and Zed Digital. Punk, protest and passion — this tour has it all.
Queensland Youth Orchestras – The Old Museum, Bowen Hills
Saturday 19 July, 10:00am–2:00pm
The historic Old Museum has music in its bones—and on Open Day, the rehearsal rooms come alive with over 550 young musicians. Home to Queensland Youth Orchestras since 1989, this creative hub invites you to wander through rehearsals, meet the conductors, and (if you play an instrument) even join in. A living legacy of musical excellence and a beautiful reminder of the building’s concert hall roots.
Brass for Brunch – Tom’s Kitchen, Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
Saturday 19 July, 10:00–11:00am
Start your Open House weekend with bold brass and a strong coffee. Bayside Brass will set the tone with an upbeat morning set in the leafy surrounds of Tom’s Kitchen. Enjoy brunch and ST. Ali coffee as timeless tunes fill the garden terrace.
Jazz at Sunset – Kite Terrace, Thomas Dixon Centre
Saturday 19 July, 3:00–6:00pm | Live music 4:00–5:00pm
Watch the sun go down to the sweet sounds of the Jindalee Jazz Orchestra on the rooftop at the Thomas Dixon Centre. Layla’s cocktails, a curated snack menu, and uninterrupted views—this is the perfect Saturday afternoon wind-down.
Bands in Parks | Music That Resonates – St Augustine’s Church
Saturday 19 July, 3:00–4:00pm
Hear the Brisbane Municipal Concert Band in full flight inside the gothic beauty of St Augustine’s Church. From John Williams to Bolero, this is music that stirs the soul.
Sahara Beck | Grand on Ann
Saturday 19 July, 7:30pm
Known for her magnetic stage presence and captivating performances, Sahara Beck has made waves across global festivals and venues, from Glastonbury and Queen Elizabeth Hall in London to local favourites like Blues Festival Byron Bay and Falls Music & Arts Festival. This special, intimate performance will see Sahara take over the stunning Grand on Ann – an architectural masterpiece that exudes timeless elegance and historic grandeur. Presented in partnership with Grand on Ann and Open Season.
Pipers at Parliament – Parliament House, George Street
Sunday 20 July, 10:00–11:00am
Bagpipes, kilts and bold tradition. The Brisbane Pipe Band brings spectacle and sound to the grounds of Parliament House in a stirring Sunday morning performance.
Brass at Brisbane Open House – UQ Brisbane City Atrium
Sunday 20 July, 12:00–1:00pm
Enjoy a family-friendly concert with Brisbane Brass, led by Elena Katahanas, in the elegant UQ City Atrium. Expect cinematic favourites, toe-tapping marches, and big band joy.
Bands at City Hall – Main Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall
Sunday 20 July, 2:00–3:00pm
Optional wine + cheese or afternoon tea $10
Experience the grandeur of City Hall’s Main Auditorium with the South East Queensland Symphonic Winds. With works by Holst, Elgar, and British Sea Songs, this uplifting concert is the perfect way to round out your Open House weekend. Feeling fancy? Grab a glass of wine and a cheese box, or treat yourself to cake and tea.
No bookings required – just turn up and enjoy. Whether you’re a jazz lover or a brass fan, Brisbane Open House 2025 invites you to listen to the city in a whole new way. Bands in Parks is presented by Brisbane City Council.