Pardon My French

Style. Wit. Virtuosity

The English wrote the music. The Frenchman rewrites the rules. 

French-Japanese violinist Augustin Lusson has never been interested in playing the role of the traditional Baroque soloist. He calls himself the "anti-soloist"—leading from within rather than standing apart, bringing fearless energy, curiosity and personality to every performance. Making his Australian debut with the Brandenburg, he arrives with a reputation as one of Europe's most exciting musical provocateurs. 

The title Pardon My French is more than a joke. It celebrates a Baroque world without borders, where composers borrowed freely, crossed cultures and constantly reinvented one another's ideas. Handel, Corbet, Avison, Geminiani and Leclair become fellow travelers in a musical landscape where nationality matters far less than imagination. 

The result is exhilarating. Familiar music feels newly minted, old rivalries become creative fuel, and centuries-old masterpieces emerge full of freshness, wit and life. This is Baroque music with its collar loosened—irreverent, stylish and utterly captivating. 

This performance is currently available as part of an Australian Brandenburg Orchestra 2027 Season Subscription. Single tickets go on sale to the general public 18 Nov 2026.