Kristina Zelinska

Kristina moved to Wellington to join the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra's first violin section at the end of 2004.

Originally from Ukraine, Kristina began her professional music journey at a young age at Kyiv Music School. The school provides young students the opportunity to study music intensively, in addition to their regular curriculum. Upon graduating, she was accepted into the highly competitive Tchaikovsky Conservatory, also a Kyiv School of Music patron at that time.

While at the Conservatory, Kristina was appointed principal first violin at the National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine. She also regularly performed with the Kyiv Chamber Orchestra, embarking on international tours throughout Europe and Asia.

Following her family's move to New Zealand, Kristina continued her music education at the University of Canterbury under the guidance of Jan Tawroszewicz. In 2003, she earned her BMus with First Class Honours.

Throughout her career, Kristina has relished participating in diverse chamber projects, performing solo recitals, and being a member of the contemporary ensemble Stroma. In 2013, she was awarded the June Violet Common Scholarship, enabling her to attend the Winter Music Residency at Banff Centre, Canada. Whilst there, she collaborated with inspiring members of the New Orford String Quartet and other artists from around the world.

Fortunate to have experienced an extensive music education and the guidance of inspiring teachers, Kristina has developed a passion for teaching. She hopes to share her knowledge and love for music with the next generation of musicians.

I feel privileged to be a part of Aotearoa's thriving music scene and am looking forward to having a greater involvement in music education.