The Christchurch Civic Music Council (CCMC) was set up in 1941 to publicise, promote, advocate, support musicians, and encourage audience participation, in partnership with the Christchurch City Council. During World War 2 it was acknowledged that the arts through music would enrich the lives of people during tough times. James Hay, Sir Hamish Hay, Professors Vernon Griffiths and John Ritchie, Robert Field-Dodgson and many others contributed enormously to the CCMC. They led many initiatives including the formation of the Christchurch Civic Orchestra.
Of course the same is true today during the Covid19 pandemic. On 7th November, 2021, at the Great Hall in the Arts Centre, ten affiliated groups participated to bring music to the audience to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the CCMC. This was a wonderful, free event, in which many significant Christchurch groups and soloists featured. We value the financial support received from Creative Communities annually and for this very successful concert. Fifty affiliates (including 21 choirs, 9 suburban orchestras and the CSO, 3 bands, 5 Chamber Music groups and 9 groups actively engaged in Music education) connect to the Council. They can be found on the website, along with their monthly calendar of events.
More recently the CCMC has engaged with the City Council in the development of its Arts Strategy, has advocated for the Christchurch Town Hall restoration and commemorated the end of World War I at Wigram featuring Woolston Brass and Philip Normans Pro Patria performed by affiliates. An Affiliates Journal provides quarterly updates to keep affiliates informed of activities.
The Calendar includes the National Concerto Competition, an annual music competition for emerging soloists. The finalists perform with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. The CCMC administers legacies for outstanding young musicians, such as the Ruby Hay Pianoforte Competition and the Ernest Empson Scholarship. Support is also provided for the annual primary and intermediate schools through Strum Strike and Blow. This is an outstanding event involving over 1000 young people and also providing enjoyment to many age groups who come to listen.
For all those engaged in all genres of music in Christchurch/ Ōtautahi, it is essential for them to be able to develop, to be recognised and to be heard. The CCMC is committed to a philosophy of inclusion and diversity. Our city has many wonderful music groups from many backgrounds which must be celebrated and showcased whenever possible.