Music Director: Edo de Waart
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra is New Zealand’s national orchestra. One of the world’s oldest national symphony orchestras, it has charmed audiences with memorable concerts and recordings for 68 years.
Today, the NZSO is recognised as an outstanding orchestra of international stature. It continues to grow and develop artistically, taking a challenging and varied programme of music to communities throughout New Zealand.
Wellington is not only the country’s capital but also the arts hub of New Zealand. In addition to being the home of NZSO, it is also the residence of the Royal New Zealand Ballet, Chamber Music New Zealand, and the NZ Festival.
Wellington is one of ‘2015’s hottest cities’, according to BBC Travel:
Not only does Wellington have a bustling café and craft beer scene, but in 2015 the city of 200,000 people is celebrating its 150th year as New Zealand’s capital.
New Zealand has also been named the world’s best country, according to the 2014 Telegraph Travel Awards. It is the third year running that New Zealand has won best-country honours.
To find out more about Wellington, visit wellingtonnz.com/discover
Peter Dykes, Associate Principal Oboe (originally from UK): “New Zealand is a country where there are endless opportunities to enjoy whatever one may be interested in, alongside playing in an international standard orchestra. As well as the general high standard of living in New Zealand, one can enjoy being a part of the vibrant Wellington community, where there are numerous leisure and lifestyle activities to suit every possible palate.”
Carolyn Mills, Section Principal Harp (originally from USA): “New Zealand is a fantastic place to live and work, and I feel extremely fortunate to have found myself here. I love playing with the NZSO and am always inspired by my colleagues, and by the warmth of the people here. It’s a very easy place to feel at home.”