Upcoming Events

Album launch for ASH & BONE by David Long.

Featuring David Long, Hamish McKeich, Carolyn Mills, Riki Gooch, Rachel Vernon, Pat Barry, Bridget Douglas, Andrew Jarvis, and Mark Jarvis.

David Kay - Conductor
Teina Moetara, Ruth Smith, Tama Waipara and Mere Boynton - Creative team
New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

If a place was to speak to you, what message would it give?

Wai-hī-rere across time has always authored its own narration through the vitality, HIHĪ and flow of its waters, environment and people. HIHĪ draws inspiration from that authority, giving the message of this place human and instrumental voices.

HIHĪ – A Song of Place showcases some of our most remarkable songbirds amidst the exquisite beauty of our natural environment.

Nestled at the base of Ahitītī and surrounded by the beauty of the Waihirere Domain Reserve, HIHĪ combines haka, waiata, opera and showcasing the beauty of te reo Māori.

Featuring renowned singers Maisey Rika, Deborah Wai Kapohe, Erena Koopu and Rutene Spooner, accompanied by musicians from the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, this spectacular and unique opera event showcases the songs of Te Tairāwhiti, well-loved waiata sung in operatic style, kapa haka and favourite opera arias performed in te reo Māori.

This world premeiere event will be the highlight and is not to be missed.

Created by Te Tairāwhiti Arts Festival in collaboration with Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts.

As always, we love celebrating the richness of Aotearoa’s marvellously diverse composers in our Waitangi Day concert. From the simplicity of Lilburn's iconic song cycle Sings Harry, to the colourful and atmospheric writing of Salina Fisher and Ken Young, to the rocking rhythms of Mark Smythe's Moto Revivo in a new revision specifically for this concert, there's something for everyone.

Douglas Lilburn - Sings Harry
Michaela Cadwgan (soprano), Somi Kim (piano)

Salina Fisher - Kintsugi
NZTrio – Amalia Hall (violin), Ashley Brown (cello), Somi Kim (piano)

Mark Smythe - Moto Revivo
Helen Webby (harp)

Kenneth Young - Horn Trio
Arna Morton (violin), Alex Morton (horn), Somi Kim (piano)

Our Grand Finale concert features a fabulous range of works, including the luscious Saint-Saëns Fantaisie for Violin and Harp, a world premiere for the NZSQ with Bob Bickerton playing Taonga Puoro, some beloved Italian songs and Aria, and to end, Tchaikovsky’s blockbuster ‘Souvenir de Florence’ string sextet.

Phil Brownlee and Ariana Tikao - Manaaki
Commissioned by the Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts
NZ String Quartet - Helene Pohl (first violin), Monique Lapins (second violin), Gillian Ansell (viola), Rolf Gjelsten (cello), Bob Bickerton (taonga puoro)

Camille Saint-Saëns - Fantaisie for Violin and Harp, Opus 124
Amalia Hall (violin), Helen Webby (harp)

Giulio Caccini - Amarilli Mia Bella
Francesco Durante - Danza Danza Fanciula
Giocomo Puccini - ‘Donde Lieta Usci’ from La bohème
Gioachino Rossini - Aragonese
Michaela Cadwgan (soprano), Somi Kim (piano)

Interval

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky - 'Souvenir de Florence'
Helene Pohl (violin), Amalia Hall (violin) Gillian Ansell (viola), Monique Lapins (viola), Rolf Gjelsten (cello), Ashley Brown (cello)

Martin Griffiths: cello, Polly Sussex: piano and viola da gamba with Emma Chatterton & Libbie Gillard (recitation).

The performance includes music by Arnold Trowell and F. Chopin and a new composition by Janet Jennings – based on a story by Katherine Mansfield – titled Cars on Lambton Quay. A highlight will be the reading of a newly-rediscovered story (2020) –‘The Chorus Girl and the Tariff’ – by Katherine Mansfield.

The World Premiere of 21 x 21 by soprano Jenny Wollerman and concert pianist Jian Liu artfully pairs Aotearoa’s female composers and poets in 21 newly written songs celebrating the unique cultural and social kaupapa of Māori and Pākehā.

Handpicked featured composers involved are Leila Adu-Gilmore, Helen Bowater, Mere Boynton, Josie Burdon , Claire Cowan, Eve de Castro-Robinson, Rosa Elliott, Aiono Manu Fa'aea, Helen Fisher, Salina Fisher, Maria Grenfell, Leonie Holmes, Janet Jennings, Jenny McLeod, Celeste Oram, Gemma Peacocke, Tabea Squire, Deborah Wai Kapohe, Louise Webster, Dame Gillian Karawe Whitehead and Miriama Young.

The song texts include poems by Arapera Blank, Sarah Broom, Jeni Curtis, Peggy Dunstan, Lauris Edmond, Fiona Farrell, Miriama Gemmell, Dinah Hawken, Michele Leggott, Katherine Mansfield, Roma Potiki, Nina Mingya Powles, Jo Randerson and Elizabeth Smither.

21 x 21 illuminates female talent across classical music and literature.

David Kay - Conductor
Teina Moetara, Ruth Smith, Tama Waipara and Mere Boynton - Creative team
New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

From the forest glade of Waihīrere to the concert hall of Pōneke, the sounds of Te Tairāwhiti come to life in a celebration of te reo Māori and music.

If a place was to speak to you, what would it say? Across time Wai-hī-rere has always authored its own narration through the vitality, hihī and flow of its waters, environment and people. HIHĪ – A Song of Place draws inspiration from that authority, giving the message of this landscape through human and instrumental voices.

HIHĪ showcases some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most remarkable songbirds and kaihaka (performers) alongside members of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, performing the songs of Te Tairāwhiti, operatised waiata and popular arias such as ‘Nessun Dorma’ and ‘Habanera’ performed in te reo Māori.

This one-night-only experience will be a Festival highlight.

Resample Tatau is an ambitious new work from award-winning creative producer and sound artist Anonymouz.

Turning his classical hip hop sampling fusion style to the ultra-personal journey of receiving his tatau (a traditional hand tapped Sāmoan tattoo), Anonymouz draws inspiration from environmental sound to build the world of his compositions.

Painfully applied from the rib cage down to the knees, Anonymouz made audio recordings of the tapping and spatial ambience of his tatau journey by the prestigious Sā Su’ā Suluape tattooing clan.

The result is a seven-movement composition accompanied by live strings and indigenous percussion set to a backdrop of video projection. Step inside the world of Resample Tatau; take a seat or sit on the fala (mat) and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this ritualistic performance.

Building on his recent creations for award-winning dance company Black Grace and his historic opening soundscape for the New Zealand Government’s official apology to the Pasifika community for the Dawn Raids, and in collaboration with a village council and Toi Rauwhārangi Massey College of Creative Arts, Anonymouz offers up his own experience through music in response to these times.

Artist talk: Post-show

New Zealand String Quartet
Horomona Horo - taonga puoro
Michael Endres - piano

Philip Brownlee and Ariana Tikao: Manaaki
Gillian Whitehead: Hine-pū-te-hue
Amy Beach: Piano Quintet, Op. 67

Hine-pū-te-hue celebrates the fusion of taonga pūoro (Māori musical instruments) and string quartet, marking the 20th anniversary of the first ever composition that combines these instruments by Dame Gillian Whitehead.

Premiering prior to this seminal work and also commissioned by the Festival is a new piece for the same instrumentation by pūoro specialists Philip Brownlee (Te Atiawa, Ngāti Mutunga, Ngāti Toa Rangatira) and award winning waiata writer/singer Ariana Tikao (Kāi Tahu).

And finally rediscover the neglected genius of American late Romantic composer Amy Beach, a prodigy and groundbreaking musician. Her hyper-Romantic piano quintet is full of lush textures, lyrical writing and a range of expressive moods.

There is a post-show artist talk with composers Dame Gillian Whitehead and Philip Brownlee.

Luke Di Somma - composer

Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) - libretto

In a tale from living memory, a flock of badly behaved tourists spread a trail of rubbish and fuel a national obsession. This genre-defying comedy is written by the award-winning duo of Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) and composed by Luke Di Somma.

Presented by New Zealand Opera and Auckland Arts Festival at the Bruce Mason Centre, in Takapuna where it all started, The Unruly Tourists breaks all the stereotypes you think you know about opera, and will spark conversation long after the curtain goes down.

This opera is an artistic and critical work. Not all depictions or statements are based on true events.

Luke Di Somma - composer

Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) - libretto

In a tale from living memory, a flock of badly behaved tourists spread a trail of rubbish and fuel a national obsession. This genre-defying comedy is written by the award-winning duo of Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) and composed by Luke Di Somma.

Presented by New Zealand Opera and Auckland Arts Festival at the Bruce Mason Centre, in Takapuna where it all started, The Unruly Tourists breaks all the stereotypes you think you know about opera, and will spark conversation long after the curtain goes down.

This opera is an artistic and critical work. Not all depictions or statements are based on true events.

Luke Di Somma - composer

Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) - libretto

In a tale from living memory, a flock of badly behaved tourists spread a trail of rubbish and fuel a national obsession. This genre-defying comedy is written by the award-winning duo of Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) and composed by Luke Di Somma.

Presented by New Zealand Opera and Auckland Arts Festival at the Bruce Mason Centre, in Takapuna where it all started, The Unruly Tourists breaks all the stereotypes you think you know about opera, and will spark conversation long after the curtain goes down.

This opera is an artistic and critical work. Not all depictions or statements are based on true events.

Our moana is living and breathing and Taonga Moana is a love letter to our oceans.

Aotearoa's outstanding national chamber choir, Voices New Zealand, presents a musical and visual journey that transports you across the seas to explore the vulnerable beauty of our oceans.

Following the great Māori navigator Ui-Te-Rangiora on his quest to save the oceans, Taonga Moana is poetry that begs the question, will you protect the voice of the ocean?

Conducted by Dr Karen Grylls, with elegant direction and choreography by Arts Foundation Laureate Sara Brodie, this spectacular theatrical event features new music from eclectic Finnish composer Jaakko Mäntyjärvi and New Zealand’s Warren Maxwell.

On this evocative and uplifting journey, travel with our navigator to the Arctic, Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans to encounter whales, turtles and mysterious serpents.

Luke Di Somma - composer

Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) - libretto

In a tale from living memory, a flock of badly behaved tourists spread a trail of rubbish and fuel a national obsession. This genre-defying comedy is written by the award-winning duo of Livi Reihana and Amanda Kennedy (The Fan Brigade) and composed by Luke Di Somma.

Presented by New Zealand Opera and Auckland Arts Festival at the Bruce Mason Centre, in Takapuna where it all started, The Unruly Tourists breaks all the stereotypes you think you know about opera, and will spark conversation long after the curtain goes down.

This opera is an artistic and critical work. Not all depictions or statements are based on true events.

Movement within sound… vibrations… positive energy.

Ihirangaranga brings together taonga puoro, live music, spoken word, and real-time painting in a multimedia performance that draws upon cultural concepts to transport the audience to another dimension. Abstract explorations and personal reflections combine to create an otherworldly plane that engages all of the senses.

Featuring live musical performances, spoken word and visual arts, this is a show of total wonder and immersion.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 1

Ross Harris - Chamber Symphony

Lyell Cresswell - Kaea (for Trombone and orchestra)

Two NZ works by Ross Harris and Lyell Cresswell to inspire and engage - see how amazing our NZ composers are and what moves them to write these beautiful works. This is an interactive concert setting where you get to ask the questions! Featuring trombone soloist David Bremner from the NZSO.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 1

Jenny McLeod - The Emperor and the Nightingale

Poulenc - The Story of Babar (L’Histoire de Babar)

The renowned actor and comedian Mark Hadlow joins Opus Orchestra to tell two time-honoured stories that the whole family will enjoy. The fairy tale The Emperor and the Nightingale has been given a delightful musical setting by New Zealand composer, Jenny McLeod. Then we have Jean de Brunhoff’s classic The Story of Barbar, the little Elephant. Francis Poulenc’s setting is charming, witty and engaging, like the story itself. A. A. Milne (the creator of Winnie-the-Pooh) wrote “If you love elephants you will love Babar and Celeste. If you have never loved elephants you will love them now.” Children, parents, grandparents: let us transport you to the fairytale kingdoms of the Emperor and the little Elephant.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 1

Ross Harris - Chamber Symphony

Lyell Cresswell - Kaea (for Trombone and orchestra)

Two NZ works by Ross Harris and Lyell Cresswell to inspire and engage - see how amazing our NZ composers are and what moves them to write these beautiful works. This is an interactive concert setting where you get to ask the questions! Featuring trombone soloist David Bremner from the NZSO.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 1

Jenny McLeod - The Emperor and the Nightingale

Poulenc - The Story of Babar (L’Histoire de Babar)

The renowned actor and comedian Mark Hadlow joins Opus Orchestra to tell two time-honoured stories that the whole family will enjoy. The fairy tale The Emperor and the Nightingale has been given a delightful musical setting by New Zealand composer, Jenny McLeod. Then we have Jean de Brunhoff’s classic The Story of Barbar, the little Elephant. Francis Poulenc’s setting is charming, witty and engaging, like the story itself. A. A. Milne (the creator of Winnie-the-Pooh) wrote “If you love elephants you will love Babar and Celeste. If you have never loved elephants you will love them now.” Children, parents, grandparents: let us transport you to the fairytale kingdoms of the Emperor and the little Elephant.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 1

Ross Harris - Chamber Symphony

Lyell Cresswell - Kaea (for Trombone and orchestra)

Two NZ works by Ross Harris and Lyell Cresswell to inspire and engage - see how amazing our NZ composers are and what moves them to write these beautiful works. This is an interactive concert setting where you get to ask the questions! Featuring trombone soloist David Bremner from the NZSO.

An evening of powerful, deeply-felt music inspired by Afghan poetry and evocations of love, grief, home, and war.

From Hamilton-born, New York-based composer Gemma Peacocke, Waves & Lines is a multimedia song cycle for soprano, electronics, and chamber ensemble based on a tradition of Afghan women’s folk poetry. Collected in the book I Am the Beggar of the World: Landays From Contemporary Afghanistan, these poems offer a surprising and vivid – and often humorous – glimpse into the lives of women existing under the watch of an ultraconservative regime.

Exploring the distance, anonymity, and strange intimacy of phone calls, text messages, and radio broadcasts in which the poems are shared, the song cycle features the use of fixed electronics and projections, and showcases the musical prowess of vocalist Natasha Te Rupe Wilson (Te Arawa, Ngā Puhi) and a stellar ensemble of New Zealand’s finest musicians.

Pre-show talk at 6:00pm

What does it mean to be alive, knowing that life is finite?

Poignantly shaped around poetry by Bill Manhire, Sam Hunt, Chloe Honum, Ian Wedde, and James K Baxter, and inspired by the visual language of photographer Anne Noble, this world premiere work from award-winning composer Victoria Kelly explores one of the most ancient musical forms, the Requiem, and takes it to new secular and spiritual heights.

In contemplating our existence, the natural world, and feelings of wonder, loss, longing, desire, and surrender, Kelly has created a rare orchestral and choral work of great beauty and power featuring the exquisite voices of Simon O’Neill and Jayne Tankersley.

Ātahu– a work for taonga puoro and orchestra by Ruby Solly – is a second, much-anticipated world premiere that will be performed in the same evening.

Complementing the two debuts will be performances of Debussy’s Nocturnes and one of Mahler's Rückert-Lieder, ‘Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen’. This rich concert promises to be a highlight of the Festival, one that will truly touch the soul and lift the spirit.

Strauss: Don Juan, Op.20
Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op.43
Salina Fisher (NZ): Murmuring Light
Tchaikovsky: Francesca da Rimini, Op.32

Shiyeon Sung Conductor
Michael Endres Piano

Much of Richard Strauss’ music took inspiration from some of literature’s illustrious characters. In this tone poem, Strauss drew upon the tale of the fictitious Don Juan, whose romantic adventures, his larger-than-life energy, and his disregard for societal norms made him the hero-villain of various plays, novels, and poems.

Its recurring dominant musical themes, its changeable moods, incredible orchestration, shocking eroticism and ultra-modern musical style all contribute to a swashbuckling romp that outraged Strauss’s contemporaries.

Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini pays homage to the extraordinary 19th century virtuosi violinist, Nicolo Paganini, through its own pianistic fireworks. The CSO is joined by celebrated pianist Michael Endres to perform this dazzling masterpiece.

Salina Fisher is a New Zealand composer and violinist whose compositions delve into the musical traditions of Japan and New Zealand, with a particular emphasis on timbre and colour. In Murmuring Light, the delicate balance between the individual and the group is enhanced and distorted in an unbroken transference of radiance.

Francesca da Rimini, Tchaikovsky’s tempestuous symphonic tone poem, begins at the entrance to Hell and details Dante’s story of two adulterous lovers, punished with eternal damnation.

WCO 50th Anniversary Concert

Rachel Hyde - Conductor
Samuel McKeever - bass-baritone

Shostakovich – Festive Overture
Gareth Farr – Terra Incognita
Gustav Holst – The Planets

Schumann – Sech Stückein kanonischer Form, Op. 56, arr. for piano trio, selections
New Commission (NZ)
Kapustin – Trio, Op. 86
Beethoven – Piano Trio in B-flat major, Op. 97 “Archduke”

The story begins with the first two of Schumann’s “Six Pieces in Canon” where he pays homage to the lasting resonance of Bach’s prodigious talents in polyphonic writing. Then we look simultaneously to the past and the future, marking NZTrio’s proud legacy of over 75 commissions by performing the latest creation from Michael Norris, who wrote NZTrio’s first ever commission back in 2003. Genre-busting repertoire is highlighted in Kapustin’s trio, a representation of the Soviet jazz scene – spicy and crisp. There’s a moment to catch your breath before the heavyweight champion appears. Beethoven’s Op.97 Bb Major trio is dedicated to his patron and friend Archduke Rudolph of Austria who would surely be delighted to know his name lives on attached to this majestic and profoundly affecting work.

“Tararua draw on personal history, the inspiration of ancient stories and knowledge, and the dark beauty of this country”

Ariana Tikao - vocals and taonga pūoro
Ruby Solly - taonga pūoro, cello
Phil Boniface - double bass
Alistair Fraser - taonga pūoro
Louise Pōtiki Bryant - digital imagery

BIRD LIKE MEN will include music from Tararua’s album of the same name

Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, whānau manuscripts of Tikao and kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, Bird Like Men is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.

This multimedia performance brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

COMPOSER & LYRICIST Tim Finn

TAHITIAN MONOLOGUES Célestine Hitiura Vaite

CO-COMPOSER Tom McLeod

IHITAI ‘AVEI’A – STAR NAVIGATOR Aboard a cramped British scientific vessel in the vastness of the Pacific, two navigators find themselves locked on a collision course. One is a Tahitian priest, guided by his ancient knowledge of star pathways. The other a naval officer, desperate to prove both himself and his faith in science.

This beautiful and haunting new work by composer Tim Finn, co-composer Tom McLeod, with Tahitian monologues by Célestine Hitiura Vaite, tells the story of Tupaia, the Tahitian star navigator who sailed with James Cook, on the maiden voyage of the Endeavour in 1769. Ihitai ‘Avei’a – Star Navigator explores the relationship between two master mariners, each from vastly different worlds, both far from home and unable to find their way into each other’s world.

After a sold out world premiere in Auckland in 2021, we are delighted to present Ihitai ‘Avei’a – Star Navigator at Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua with Orchestra Wellington.

John Adams The Chairman Dances: Foxtrot for Orchestra
John Psathas (NZ) The All-Seeing Sky Double Percussion Concerto
Rautavaara Symphony No. 7 (Angel of Light)

Benjamin Northey - Chief Conductor
Fabian Zeigler & Luca Staffelbach - Percussion

The Chairman Dances is characteristic of a mish mash of minimalist iterations (and re-iterations), conventional pseudo jazz timbres, persisting rhythms, and colourful orchestration.

Acclaimed percussion duo Fabian Ziegler and Luca Staffelbach make their New Zealand debut and perform the world premiere of the new concerto composed especially for them by John Psathas which has been co-commissioned by the CSO and Orchestra Wellington.

Rautavaara’s Symphony No.7, entitled ‘Angel of Light’, was written in 1994 and completes his ‘Angels Series’ which also includes the orchestral work Angels and Visitations (1978) and the double bass concerto Angel of Dusk (1980). The symphony evokes both the benign and unpredictable forces of nature.

COMPOSER & LYRICIST Tim Finn

TAHITIAN MONOLOGUES Célestine Hitiura Vaite

CO-COMPOSER Tom McLeod

IHITAI ‘AVEI’A – STAR NAVIGATOR Aboard a cramped British scientific vessel in the vastness of the Pacific, two navigators find themselves locked on a collision course. One is a Tahitian priest, guided by his ancient knowledge of star pathways. The other a naval officer, desperate to prove both himself and his faith in science.

This beautiful and haunting new work by composer Tim Finn, co-composer Tom McLeod, with Tahitian monologues by Célestine Hitiura Vaite, tells the story of Tupaia, the Tahitian star navigator who sailed with James Cook, on the maiden voyage of the Endeavour in 1769. Ihitai ‘Avei’a – Star Navigator explores the relationship between two master mariners, each from vastly different worlds, both far from home and unable to find their way into each other’s world.

After a sold out world premiere in Auckland in 2021, we are delighted to present Ihitai ‘Avei’a – Star Navigator at Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua with Orchestra Wellington.

Shortened version of one hour, no interval with selections from:

Schumann – Sech Stückein kanonischer Form, Op. 56, arr. for piano trio, selections
New Commission (NZ)
Kapustin – Trio, Op. 86
Beethoven – Piano Trio in B-flat major, Op. 97 “Archduke”

The story begins with the first two of Schumann’s “Six Pieces in Canon” where he pays homage to the lasting resonance of Bach’s prodigious talents in polyphonic writing. Then we look simultaneously to the past and the future, marking NZTrio’s proud legacy of over 75 commissions by performing the latest creation from Michael Norris, who wrote NZTrio’s first ever commission back in 2003. Genre-busting repertoire is highlighted in Kapustin’s trio, a representation of the Soviet jazz scene – spicy and crisp. There’s a moment to catch your breath before the heavyweight champion appears. Beethoven’s Op.97 Bb Major trio is dedicated to his patron and friend Archduke Rudolph of Austria who would surely be delighted to know his name lives on attached to this majestic and profoundly affecting work.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 2: AN EVENING WITH MOZART

Janet Jennings - Mindscape (New work commissioned for Opus Orchestra)

Mozart - Violin Concerto in A major K.219 (the “Turkish”)

Mozart - Requiem

Conductor – Peter Walls
Soloists – Lara Hall (Violin), Jayne Tankersley (Soprano), Kristin Darragh (Alto), Andrew Grenon (Tenor), Chalium Poppy (Bass)
Scholars Baroque Aotearoa

Opus Orchestra will be joined by Tauranga choir Scholars Baroque to perform Mozart’s much-loved Requiem. The programme will also feature Opus concertmaster, Lara Hall, performing Mozart’s Violin Concerto in A major and a new commission by Janet Jennings written especially for this programme. An Evening with Mozart is dedicated to the late Bill Taylor who donated a set of basset horns which will be played in this concert.

“Tararua draw on personal history, the inspiration of ancient stories and knowledge, and the dark beauty of this country”

Ariana Tikao - vocals and taonga pūoro
Ruby Solly - taonga pūoro, cello
Phil Boniface - double bass
Alistair Fraser - taonga pūoro
Louise Pōtiki Bryant - digital imagery

BIRD LIKE MEN will include music from Tararua’s album of the same name

Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, whānau manuscripts of Tikao and kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, Bird Like Men is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.

This multimedia performance brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 2: AN EVENING WITH MOZART

Janet Jennings - Mindscape (New work commissioned for Opus Orchestra)

Mozart - Violin Concerto in A major K.219 (the “Turkish”)

Mozart - Requiem

Conductor – Peter Walls
Soloists – Lara Hall (Violin), Jayne Tankersley (Soprano), Kristin Darragh (Alto), Andrew Grenon (Tenor), Chalium Poppy (Bass)
Scholars Baroque Aotearoa

Opus Orchestra will be joined by Tauranga choir Scholars Baroque to perform Mozart’s much-loved Requiem. The programme will also feature Opus concertmaster, Lara Hall, performing Mozart’s Violin Concerto in A major and a new commission by Janet Jennings written especially for this programme. An Evening with Mozart is dedicated to the late Bill Taylor who donated a set of basset horns which will be played in this concert.

2022 CONCERT SERIES 2: AN EVENING WITH MOZART

Janet Jennings - Mindscape (New work commissioned for Opus Orchestra)

Mozart - Violin Concerto in A major K.219 (the “Turkish”)

Mozart - Requiem

Conductor – Peter Walls
Soloists – Lara Hall (Violin), Jayne Tankersley (Soprano), Kristin Darragh (Alto), Andrew Grenon (Tenor), Chalium Poppy (Bass)
Scholars Baroque Aotearoa

Opus Orchestra will be joined by Tauranga choir Scholars Baroque to perform Mozart’s much-loved Requiem. The programme will also feature Opus concertmaster, Lara Hall, performing Mozart’s Violin Concerto in A major and a new commission by Janet Jennings written especially for this programme. An Evening with Mozart is dedicated to the late Bill Taylor who donated a set of basset horns which will be played in this concert.

“Tararua draw on personal history, the inspiration of ancient stories and knowledge, and the dark beauty of this country”

Ariana Tikao - vocals and taonga pūoro
Ruby Solly - taonga pūoro, cello
Phil Boniface - double bass
Alistair Fraser - taonga pūoro
Louise Pōtiki Bryant - digital imagery

BIRD LIKE MEN will include music from Tararua’s album of the same name

Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, whānau manuscripts of Tikao and kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, Bird Like Men is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.

This multimedia performance brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

STORY & LIBRETTO Georgia Jamieson Emms

COMPOSER & CONDUCTOR Kenneth Young (with Anna Leese)

DIRECTOR Eleanor Bishop

A poignant and imaginative reflection on events during Janet Frame’s time at Seacliff Mental Hospital, The Strangest of Angels is a harrowing and hopeful experience that throws light on mental health then and now.

Co-created by Kenneth Young, Georgia Jamieson Emms and Anna Leese, The Strangest of Angels is born of an exciting and conscious collaboration between composer and performers that explores the contrast between a calm, rational psychiatric patient and a traumatised nurse torn between empathy and the relative power of institutional duty.

World premiere performances directed by Friedlander Foundation Associate Artist Eleanor Bishop and starring Anna Leese and Jayne Tankersley. Proudly presented by NZ Opera and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in Christchurch. In Dunedin The Strangest of Angels is presented with the Dunedin Arts Festival and the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.

“Tararua draw on personal history, the inspiration of ancient stories and knowledge, and the dark beauty of this country”

Ariana Tikao - vocals and taonga pūoro
Ruby Solly - taonga pūoro, cello
Phil Boniface - double bass
Alistair Fraser - taonga pūoro
Louise Pōtiki Bryant - digital imagery

BIRD LIKE MEN will include music from Tararua’s album of the same name

Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, whānau manuscripts of Tikao and kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, Bird Like Men is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.

This multimedia performance brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

STORY & LIBRETTO Georgia Jamieson Emms

COMPOSER & CONDUCTOR Kenneth Young (with Anna Leese)

DIRECTOR Eleanor Bishop

A poignant and imaginative reflection on events during Janet Frame’s time at Seacliff Mental Hospital, The Strangest of Angels is a harrowing and hopeful experience that throws light on mental health then and now.

Co-created by Kenneth Young, Georgia Jamieson Emms and Anna Leese, The Strangest of Angels is born of an exciting and conscious collaboration between composer and performers that explores the contrast between a calm, rational psychiatric patient and a traumatised nurse torn between empathy and the relative power of institutional duty.

World premiere performances directed by Friedlander Foundation Associate Artist Eleanor Bishop and starring Anna Leese and Jayne Tankersley. Proudly presented by NZ Opera and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in Christchurch. In Dunedin The Strangest of Angels is presented with the Dunedin Arts Festival and the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.

Schumann – Sech Stückein kanonischer Form, Op. 56, arr. for piano trio, selections
New Commission (NZ)
Kapustin – Trio, Op. 86
Beethoven – Piano Trio in B-flat major, Op. 97 “Archduke”

The story begins with the first two of Schumann’s “Six Pieces in Canon” where he pays homage to the lasting resonance of Bach’s prodigious talents in polyphonic writing. Then we look simultaneously to the past and the future, marking NZTrio’s proud legacy of over 75 commissions by performing the latest creation from Michael Norris, who wrote NZTrio’s first ever commission back in 2003. Genre-busting repertoire is highlighted in Kapustin’s trio, a representation of the Soviet jazz scene – spicy and crisp. There’s a moment to catch your breath before the heavyweight champion appears. Beethoven’s Op.97 Bb Major trio is dedicated to his patron and friend Archduke Rudolph of Austria who would surely be delighted to know his name lives on attached to this majestic and profoundly affecting work.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Vaughan Williams Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis
Rodrigo Concierto de Aranjuez
Anthony Ritchie Symphony No. 5 ‘Childhood’

Kenneth Young - Conductor
Steve Cowan - Guitar

Vaughan Williams borrowed a theme from his great 16th-century English forebear, Thomas Tallis, and expanded it into a sumptuous, richly-textured fantasia for double string orchestra and solo string quartet.

The piece is noted for the resonant shimmering tone of its multi-voiced string ensemble and its fluid, interwoven themes.

Probably the most famous concerto for guitar, this neoclassical evocation of courtly life is also an evocation of the happy days of Rodrigo’s honeymoon (particularly the slow movement’s haunting tune) - reminiscent of when the newlywed couple walked together in the park at Aranjuez. Steve Cowan, described as “one of Canada’s top contemporary classical guitarists”, will feature as the soloist in this nostalgic work.

Symphony No. 5 “Childhood” was recorded by Kenneth Young and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in the Christchurch Town Hall in June 2020. Anthony Ritchie describes his composition as “an optimistic work that uses childhood as a metaphor for renewed hope and optimism for the future”.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

James Judd - Conductor
Patrick Barry - Clarinet

Buchanan: Fanfare for Peace
Copland: Clarinet Concerto
Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 'From the New World'

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

James Judd - Conductor
Patrick Barry - Clarinet

Buchanan: Fanfare for Peace
Copland: Clarinet Concerto
Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 'From the New World'

Gareth Farr: Te Kōanga
Mendelssohn: String Quartet No. 1 in E flat Major, op 12
Ross Edwards: White Cockatoo Spirit Dance
Dvořák: String Quartet No 12 in F Major, op 96, ‘American’

Dene Olding - violin
Dimity Hall - violin
Irina Morozova - viola
Julian Smiles - cello

With a legacy spanning almost three decades without a change of membership, the Goldner String Quartet is arguably Australia’s pre-eminent string quartet and recognised internationally through their wealth of recordings on the Hyperion label and live performances in such iconic venues as Wigmore Hall. CMNZ welcome back our old friends from across the ditch for an evening anchored by favourites of the repertoire including Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Goldner String Quartet bring a programme brimming over with exuberance and energy. Australian composer Ross Edwards is celebrated for his characterful evocations of the natural landscape in all its vibrancy and our very own Gareth Farr is featured in a work inspired by the regeneration of planting new crops in the spring.

In his famous ‘American’ quartet, Dvořák gave us one of the most highly spirited contributions to the genre. While he searched for an American sound, drawing on bird song and inspired by African American spirituals, the piece is full of his home in Bohemia—to which he would soon yearn to return. A young Mendelssohn is likewise exuberant in a sparkling display of light and shade, and yet the letters BP inscribed across the manuscript hint at longing for a romance forbidden.

Featuring Rob Ruha

Ngā Mihi O Matariki!

This Matariki, come together to celebrate with a night of uplifting music, kapa haka and the ātaahua tones of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

Rob Ruha is an acclaimed powerhouse of progressive Māori music, and he joins the APO to bring us Ka Pō, Ka Ao a dynamic celebration of Te Pō the night and Te Ao daylight; the genesis and life-force of all things.

From epic ballads, like ‘I Te Pō’ to soulful grooves like ‘Ka Mānu’ and ‘Kalega’, Rob Ruha and the APO harness the excitement and promise of the new year to inspire unity in us all. This will be a beautiful moment to welcome in te tau hou Māori.

Fabian Russell - Conductor

David Mason: NYO Composer-in-Residence New Commission
Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Carl Maria von Weber
Mahler: Symphony No. 1 Titan

“Tararua draw on personal history, the inspiration of ancient stories and knowledge, and the dark beauty of this country”

Ariana Tikao - vocals and taonga pūoro
Ruby Solly - taonga pūoro, cello
Phil Boniface - double bass
Alistair Fraser - taonga pūoro
Louise Pōtiki Bryant - digital imagery

BIRD LIKE MEN will include music from Tararua’s album of the same name

Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, whānau manuscripts of Tikao and kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, Bird Like Men is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.

This multimedia performance brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

Fabian Russell - Conductor

David Mason: NYO Composer-in-Residence New Commission
Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Carl Maria von Weber
Mahler: Symphony No. 1 Titan

Schumann: Sechs Stücke in kanonischer Form, Op. 56 arr. for Piano Trio, III & IV
Squire: Der Tanz
William Bolcom: Trio
Schubert: Piano Trio No. 2 in E flat, Op. 100

The story continues with the luscious trio arrangement of Schumann’s melodious miniatures dedicated to his music teacher Friedrich Wieck before we return home to the sounds of Aotearoa in Tabea Squire’s newest work. Bolcom’s trio celebrates the music of our time in a whirlwind journey, turbulent with autumnal and Hispanic-jazzy tones contrasted with other-worldly serenity. Finally, we experience Schubert at the height of his artistry in his marvellous E-flat trio, acclaimed by Schumann as ‘an angry meteor blazing forth and outshining everything in the musical atmosphere of the time’. Brace yourselves for this epic musical panorama – the whole gamut of human emotion is conveyed in just four movements.

Schumann: Sechs Stücke in kanonischer Form, Op. 56 arr. for Piano Trio, III & IV
Squire: Der Tanz
William Bolcom: Trio
Schubert: Piano Trio No. 2 in E flat, Op. 100

The story continues with the luscious trio arrangement of Schumann’s melodious miniatures dedicated to his music teacher Friedrich Wieck before we return home to the sounds of Aotearoa in Tabea Squire’s newest work. Bolcom’s trio celebrates the music of our time in a whirlwind journey, turbulent with autumnal and Hispanic-jazzy tones contrasted with other-worldly serenity. Finally, we experience Schubert at the height of his artistry in his marvellous E-flat trio, acclaimed by Schumann as ‘an angry meteor blazing forth and outshining everything in the musical atmosphere of the time’. Brace yourselves for this epic musical panorama – the whole gamut of human emotion is conveyed in just four movements.

“Tararua draw on personal history, the inspiration of ancient stories and knowledge, and the dark beauty of this country”

Ariana Tikao - vocals and taonga pūoro
Ruby Solly - taonga pūoro, cello
Phil Boniface - double bass
Alistair Fraser - taonga pūoro
Louise Pōtiki Bryant - digital imagery

BIRD LIKE MEN will include music from Tararua’s album of the same name

Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, whānau manuscripts of Tikao and kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, Bird Like Men is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.

This multimedia performance brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

2021 CONCERT SERIES 3:

MASTER AND MENTOR

Pruden - God Save the Queen
Brahms - Concerto for Violin and Violoncello in A minor, Op. 102
Eve de Castro-Robinson - Fractions
Mendelssohn - Symphony No.3 in A minor, Op. 56 ‘Scottish'

Guest Conductor - James Judd
Soloists - Vesa-Matti Leppänen (violin) and Andrew Joyce (violoncello)

We welcome Guest Conductor James Judd to this concert of epic works. One highlight is the Brahms concerto for Violin and Violoncello with NZSO musicians as soloists; Vesa-Matti Leppänen (violin) and Andrew Joyce (violoncello).

2021 CONCERT SERIES 3:

MASTER AND MENTOR

Pruden - God Save the Queen
Brahms - Concerto for Violin and Violoncello in A minor, Op. 102
Eve de Castro-Robinson - Fractions
Mendelssohn - Symphony No.3 in A minor, Op. 56 ‘Scottish'

Guest Conductor - James Judd
Soloists - Vesa-Matti Leppänen (violin) and Andrew Joyce (violoncello)

We welcome Guest Conductor James Judd to this concert of epic works. One highlight is the Brahms concerto for Violin and Violoncello with NZSO musicians as soloists; Vesa-Matti Leppänen (violin) and Andrew Joyce (violoncello).

Lissa Meridan (NZ): Firecracker
Osvaldo Golijov: Azul
Beethoven: Symphony No. 6, Op.68, F major (Pastoral)

Benjamin Northey - Chief Conductor
Matthew Barley - Cello
Grayson Masefield - Accordion
Brett Painter - Percussion
Douglas Brush - Percussion

New Zealand composer Lissa Meridan composed the award-winning Firecracker in 1999 and it was hailed by critics as “zany and ear-popping”

Osvaldo Golijov’s cello concerto Azul is characteristic of the composer’s gift for incorporating diverse influences into a fresh vision, blending together various sources of creativity.

Cellist, Matthew Barley has created a unique international career and has been described as ‘the world’s most adventurous cellist’.

The harmonic make-up of Beethoven’s sixth symphony is entirely relaxed and rejoices in major triads from the very beginning until the ‘thunderstorm’ of the fourth movement.

2021 CONCERT SERIES 3:

MASTER AND MENTOR

Pruden - God Save the Queen
Brahms - Concerto for Violin and Violoncello in A minor, Op. 102
Eve de Castro-Robinson - Fractions
Mendelssohn - Symphony No.3 in A minor, Op. 56 ‘Scottish'

Guest Conductor - James Judd
Soloists - Vesa-Matti Leppänen (violin) and Andrew Joyce (violoncello)

We welcome Guest Conductor James Judd to this concert of epic works. One highlight is the Brahms concerto for Violin and Violoncello with NZSO musicians as soloists; Vesa-Matti Leppänen (violin) and Andrew Joyce (violoncello).

MASTER OF CEREMONIES Michael Vinten

PERFORMERS
Wade Kernot
Catrin Johnsson
Oliver Sewell
Bruce Greenfield

The Huia was a rare and tapu bird, confined to the Ruahine, Tararua, Remutaka and Kaimanawa mountain ranges in the south-east of the North Island. Their calls were mostly a varied array of whistles, “peculiar and strange”, but also “soft, melodious and flute-like.” The Huia bird is now extinct.

Join Michael Vinten as he takes us on an entertaining, informative and frequently fascinating journey of discovery through the forgotten world of the Art Song of Aotearoa.

We will hear highlights from his recent 3 volume collection of mainly unpublished pre-1950 New Zealand Art Songs. These songs – sung by our grandparents and great-grand parents – provide a glimpse into the preoccupations and concerns of their times through peace and war. Discover the significant contribution of women both Māori and Pākehā to music-making of this period as composers and poets.

Join us for this unique insight into this important but forgotten chapter of Aotearoa’s musical legacy.

Thank you to the Public Trust Hall Wellington for supporting this event.

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Tianyi Lu - Conductor
Perianes - Piano Javier

Salina Fisher: Tupaia
Falla: Nights in the Gardens of Spain
L. Boulanger: D’un matin de printemps
L. Boulanger: D’un soir triste
Stravinsky: The Firebird: Suite (1919)

A fond welcome back to a member of the APO family, Tianyi Lu – another winner of the Sir Georg Solti International Conductors’ Competition.

Salina Fisher’s imagination was fired by the famous ‘Chart of Islands’ drawn by Tupaia, the Polynesian master navigator, while he was sailing with James Cook on the Endeavour.

The prodigiously talented French composer Lili Boulanger died, tragically, at only 24, but left behind this diptych: a fresh and breezy celebration of spring, and the much more introspective work which was to be her last.

Spanish pianist Javier Perianes joins us for Falla’s gorgeous nocturnal study, and Stravinsky’s sumptuous fairytale ballet rounds off the evening.

Gemma New - Conductor
Hilary Hahn - Violin

John Rimmer: Lahar

Prokofiev: Violin Concerto No.1

Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Gemma New Conductor
Hilary Hahn Violin

Brahms Violin Concerto
Tabea Squire Variations
John Adams Doctor Atomic Symphony

MASTER OF CEREMONIES Michael Vinten

PERFORMERS
Wade Kernot
Catrin Johnsson
Oliver Sewell
Bruce Greenfield

The Huia was a rare and tapu bird, confined to the Ruahine, Tararua, Remutaka and Kaimanawa mountain ranges in the south-east of the North Island. Their calls were mostly a varied array of whistles, “peculiar and strange”, but also “soft, melodious and flute-like.” The Huia bird is now extinct.

Join Michael Vinten as he takes us on an entertaining, informative and frequently fascinating journey of discovery through the forgotten world of the Art Song of Aotearoa.

We will hear highlights from his recent 3 volume collection of mainly unpublished pre-1950 New Zealand Art Songs. These songs – sung by our grandparents and great-grand parents – provide a glimpse into the preoccupations and concerns of their times through peace and war. Discover the significant contribution of women both Māori and Pākehā to music-making of this period as composers and poets.

Join us for this unique insight into this important but forgotten chapter of Aotearoa’s musical legacy.

Thank you to the Public Trust Hall Wellington for supporting this event.

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Gemma New - Conductor
Hilary Hahn - Violin

John Rimmer: Lahar

Prokofiev: Violin Concerto No.1

Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Gemma New Conductor
Hilary Hahn Violin

Brahms Violin Concerto
Tabea Squire Variations
John Adams Doctor Atomic Symphony

MASTER OF CEREMONIES Michael Vinten

PERFORMERS
Wade Kernot
Catrin Johnsson
Oliver Sewell
Bruce Greenfield

The Huia was a rare and tapu bird, confined to the Ruahine, Tararua, Remutaka and Kaimanawa mountain ranges in the south-east of the North Island. Their calls were mostly a varied array of whistles, “peculiar and strange”, but also “soft, melodious and flute-like.” The Huia bird is now extinct.

Join Michael Vinten as he takes us on an entertaining, informative and frequently fascinating journey of discovery through the forgotten world of the Art Song of Aotearoa.

We will hear highlights from his recent 3 volume collection of mainly unpublished pre-1950 New Zealand Art Songs. These songs – sung by our grandparents and great-grand parents – provide a glimpse into the preoccupations and concerns of their times through peace and war. Discover the significant contribution of women both Māori and Pākehā to music-making of this period as composers and poets.

Join us for this unique insight into this important but forgotten chapter of Aotearoa’s musical legacy.

Thank you to the Public Trust Hall Wellington for supporting this event.

Tobias Ringborg - Conductor
Amalia Hall - Violin

Lilburn: Symphony No.3
Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending
Sibelius: Lemminkäinen Suite

A summer’s day, a bird singing in the clear blue sky, ever winging up and up… Vaughan Williams’ radiant vision of the English countryside brings New Zealand violinist Amalia Hall back to the APO.

Vaughan Williams and his student Douglas Lilburn both deeply admired Sibelius, whose influence is clear in the lean, taut argument of Lilburn’s last orchestral work.

Sibelius’ suite about the legendary hero Lemminkäinen is most familiar for its movement The Swan of Tuonela. In Finnish mythology, Tuonela is the River of Death, and Sibelius gives the calm anguish of the Swan’s song to a cor anglais.

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Polish your tiara and dust off your dancing shoes!

The ‘dream team’ which brought you 2019’s dazzling Hansel & Gretel reunite, in a brand-new ballet to celebrate the re-opening of Wellington’s St James Theatre, followed by a national tour.

Feisty, funny and fabulous, Cinderella is choreographed by master storyteller Loughlan Prior to a magical new score by Claire Cowan and with fashion-forward designs by Emma Kingsbury.

Highs, lows, fairy-tale endings and happy ever afters will spill from the stage in every shade of the rainbow. This thoroughly modern Cinderella presents a sparky, stylish twist on the classic tale, with a heroine who knows her own mind and a hero who follows his heart.

The Ryman Healthcare Season of Cinderella is accompanied by a live orchestra in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Cinderella is a stargazer, a dreamer and a unique spirit who finds herself in the wrong story. Set within an enormous, embroidered tapestry, the ballet is a kaleidoscopic collision of detail and colour, illustrating a timely twist on the classic tale.
- Loughlan Prior, Choreographer

Johannes Fritzsch - Conductor
Kristian Bezuidenhout - Piano

Gemma Peacocke: New work (world premiere)
Mozart: Piano Concerto No.22
Martinů: Symphony No.6 ‘Fantaisies symphoniques’

It is very exciting that New Zealand composer Gemma Peacocke, currently making a name for herself in New York, is writing a new work for us. It will be followed by one of Mozart’s most ebullient piano concertos.

Martinů quotes his own music in his last symphony, and he occasionally implied there was a programme behind it. If so, it remains a mystery, as he was fairly oblique on the subject. What is unambiguous, though, is that this is a superb piece, with shadowy music giving way to exultant, rhapsodic song. If you’re yet to hear it, you’ve a real treat in store.

Alexander Shelley - Conductor
Gabriela Montero - Piano

Gillian: Whitehead New Commission
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 20
Brahms: Symphony No.1

Alexander Shelley - Conductor
Gabriela Montero - Piano

Gillian: Whitehead New Commission
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 20
Brahms: Symphony No.1

Alexander Shelley - Conductor
Gabriela Montero - Piano

Gillian: Whitehead New Commission
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 20
Brahms: Symphony No.1

STORY & LIBRETTO Georgia Jamieson Emms

COMPOSER & CONDUCTOR Kenneth Young (with Anna Leese)

DIRECTOR Eleanor Bishop

A poignant and imaginative reflection on events during Janet Frame’s time at Seacliff Mental Hospital, The Strangest of Angels is a harrowing and hopeful experience that throws light on mental health then and now.

Co-created by Kenneth Young, Georgia Jamieson Emms and Anna Leese, The Strangest of Angels is born of an exciting and conscious collaboration between composer and performers that explores the contrast between a calm, rational psychiatric patient and a traumatised nurse torn between empathy and the relative power of institutional duty.

World premiere performances directed by Friedlander Foundation Associate Artist Eleanor Bishop and starring Anna Leese and Jayne Tankersley. Proudly presented by NZ Opera and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in Christchurch. In Dunedin The Strangest of Angels is presented with the Dunedin Arts Festival and the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.

STORY & LIBRETTO Georgia Jamieson Emms

COMPOSER & CONDUCTOR Kenneth Young (with Anna Leese)

DIRECTOR Eleanor Bishop

A poignant and imaginative reflection on events during Janet Frame’s time at Seacliff Mental Hospital, The Strangest of Angels is a harrowing and hopeful experience that throws light on mental health then and now.

Co-created by Kenneth Young, Georgia Jamieson Emms and Anna Leese, The Strangest of Angels is born of an exciting and conscious collaboration between composer and performers that explores the contrast between a calm, rational psychiatric patient and a traumatised nurse torn between empathy and the relative power of institutional duty.

World premiere performances directed by Friedlander Foundation Associate Artist Eleanor Bishop and starring Anna Leese and Jayne Tankersley. Proudly presented by NZ Opera and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in Christchurch. In Dunedin The Strangest of Angels is presented with the Dunedin Arts Festival and the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.

Alexander Shelley - Conductor
Gabriela Montero - Piano

Gillian: Whitehead New Commission
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 20
Brahms: Symphony No.1

Helen Fisher (NZ): Te Tangi A Te Matui (The Call of the Matui)
Mozart: Mitridate Overture K. 87
Schnittke: Moz-Art a la Haydn
Haydn: Symphony No. 73 in D Major ‘The Hunt’

Martin Riseley - Director
Hannah Darroch - Flute

Te Tangi A Te Matui (The Call of the Matui) is a work by New Zealand composer Helen Fisher and is based on a Māori karakia.

The overture to Mozart’s opera Mitridate, re di Ponto marked the culmination of Mozart’s first trip to Italy.

Schnittke’s extraordinary aptitude to fragment and reassemble various components in new and unanticipated ways is abundantly demonstrated in his 1977 Moz-Art à la Haydn, scored for two violin soloists and small ensemble.

It was directly after meeting Mozart that Haydn wrote The Hunt. Its finale’s whirlwind is suggestive of a hunt and has an almost insane energy.

Helen Fisher (NZ): Te Tangi A Te Matui (The Call of the Matui)
Mozart: Mitridate Overture K. 87
Schnittke: Moz-Art a la Haydn
Haydn: Symphony No. 73 in D Major ‘The Hunt’

Martin Riseley - Director
Hannah Darroch - Flute

Te Tangi A Te Matui (The Call of the Matui) is a work by New Zealand composer Helen Fisher and is based on a Māori karakia.

The overture to Mozart’s opera Mitridate, re di Ponto marked the culmination of Mozart’s first trip to Italy.

Schnittke’s extraordinary aptitude to fragment and reassemble various components in new and unanticipated ways is abundantly demonstrated in his 1977 Moz-Art à la Haydn, scored for two violin soloists and small ensemble.

It was directly after meeting Mozart that Haydn wrote The Hunt. Its finale’s whirlwind is suggestive of a hunt and has an almost insane energy.

Shortened version of one hour, no interval with selections from:

Schumann Sechs Stücke in kanonischer Form, Op. 56 arr. for Piano Trio, V & VI
Gao Ping New Commission
Schuller Piano Trio
Tchaikovsky Piano Trio in A minor, Op 50

The final saga begins with Schumann weaving his love of Bach’s counterpoint with his own natural fountainhead of fantasy, presented in an arrangement by his friend and colleague Kirchner. The chromatic spectrum is explored further in Schuller’s trio, embodying his jazz roots with colleagues Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, and acknowledging his place in American composers’ royalty. Gao Ping’s NZ legacy continues long after his return to China in this brand new commission. The journey concludes with the largest, most symphonic piano trio of all – Tchaikovsky’s expansive and magnificent work written in memory of Nikolai Rubinstein – “À la mémoir d’un grand artiste”.

Miguel Harth-Bedoya - Conductor
Ria Hall - Vocals

Ria Hall is a musical force to be reckoned with. Fusing roots, soul and hip-hop with powerful vocals in Te Reo Māori and English, Ria joins the NZSO in a celebration of her 2017 album Rules Of Engagement, an album that looks from New Zealand’s past to our collective future.

Miguel Harth-Bedoya - Conductor
Ria Hall - Vocals

Ria Hall is a musical force to be reckoned with. Fusing roots, soul and hip-hop with powerful vocals in Te Reo Māori and English, Ria joins the NZSO in a celebration of her 2017 album Rules Of Engagement, an album that looks from New Zealand’s past to our collective future.

Schumann Sechs Stücke in kanonischer Form, Op. 56 arr. for Piano Trio, V & VI
Gao Ping New Commission
Schuller Piano Trio
Tchaikovsky Piano Trio in A minor, Op 50

The final saga begins with Schumann weaving his love of Bach’s counterpoint with his own natural fountainhead of fantasy, presented in an arrangement by his friend and colleague Kirchner. The chromatic spectrum is explored further in Schuller’s trio, embodying his jazz roots with colleagues Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, and acknowledging his place in American composers’ royalty. Gao Ping’s NZ legacy continues long after his return to China in this brand new commission. The journey concludes with the largest, most symphonic piano trio of all – Tchaikovsky’s expansive and magnificent work written in memory of Nikolai Rubinstein – “À la mémoir d’un grand artiste”.

Gemma New - Conductor
Voices New Zealand Choir

John Psathas: Seikilos
Strauss: Death and Transfiguration
Mozart: Requiem

Gemma New - Conductor
Voices New Zealand Choir

John Psathas: Seikilos
Strauss: Death and Transfiguration
Mozart: Requiem