 In April 2020, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of live performances, the MSO management stood down the MSO musicians and selected administrative staff into 'hibernation' status.The MSO has collaborated with a number of contemporary artists from pop and rock, to techno and electronic.Notable performances include collaborations with Elton John, resulting in Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Kiss (band), Ben Folds, Burt Bacharach, Hans Zimmer, Nick Cave, Sting, Tim Minchin, DJ Jeff Mills and Flight Facilities.