Music Canterbury

The St Albans Community Choir presents "The Magic of Christmas"
2025-11-30 17:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | St Paul’s Parish Church, 1 Harewood Road, Christchurch, 8053, New Zealand
The St Albans Community Choir presents “The Magic of Christmas” on Sunday 30th November 2025, 5.00 p.m. at St Paul’s Parish Church, 1 Harewood Road, Christchurch
All welcome – Admission by donation.
A light supper will be served at the conclusion of the concert.

Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concerts: A Festive Lunchtime"
2025-12-01 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concerts: A Festive Lunchtime” on Monday 1st December 2025, 1.10pm to 1.50pm in the Great Hall, The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch
Pricing: Between $5.00 | $20.00
Join Jennine Bailey (jazz vocalist), Tom Rainey (piano) and Michael Story (bass) at the final lunchtime offering for the year – a smooth festive musical journey.
This event is part of our 2025 Great Hall Lunchtime Concerts at The Arts Centre.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/a-festive-lunchtime/

2025/2026 National Concerto Competition Preliminaries
2025-12-02 09:00 - 2025-12-04 13:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
2025/2026 National Concerto Competition Preliminaries will be held on Tuesday 2nd December to Thursday 4th December 2025 at The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch
This year is an Instrumental competition.
Please click links below for the Preliminary Schedule and Concerto Update – October 2025:
Concerto Update – October 2025
Preliminary Schedule – updated 4.11.25

CBS Music presents "Wednesdays at One - Canterbury Cellists"
2025-12-03 13:10 - 14:00 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Music presents “Wednesdays at One – Canterbury Cellists” on Wednesday 3rd December 2025 from 1.10 p.m. to 2.00 p.m. in the CBS Music Centre, Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
A mellifluous mellow cello fellowship
A light lunch is available before each concert at 12.45 p.m. A wide range of performers is featured, in a superb acoustic, often using the Steinway concert grand piano, or the 4 manual Rodgers Infinity Platinum hybrid pipe /digital organ. Groups range in size from small chamber ensembles to full symphonic orchestras, with a particular focus on encouraging young performers, and inviting citizens to be welcomed into the central city Catholic church.
Organised by CBS Music: to nurture, conserve, inspire
Programme entry $15.00 (Eftpos)

2025/2026 National Concerto Competition Semi-Final
2025-12-04 19:00 - 22:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
2025/2026 National Concerto Competition Semi-Final will be held on Thursday 4th December 2025, 7.00 p.m. at The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch.
Further details to follow.

Christchurch City Choir presents "Bach's Christmas Oratorio"
2025-12-06 19:30 - 22:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
Christchurch City Choir presents “Bach’s Christmas Oratorio” on Saturday 6th December 2025, 7.30 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. at Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch
Pricing: $20.00 | $90.00
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a magnificent Christmas concert at the Christchurch Town Hall, featuring the celebrated Christchurch City Choir, the renowned Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and four exceptional soloists. Join us for an enchanting evening as we present two masterpieces of the classical repertoire: Johann Sebastian Bach’s effervescent Magnificat and the first three cantatas of his beloved Christmas Oratorio.
The Magnificat, a vibrant and joyful work of musical celebration, features stunning vocal solos, intricate choral counterpoint, and glorious melodies. It is a brilliant example of Bach’s genius for creating music that is both complex and deeply moving. Following this, we delve into the heart of the Christmas Oratorio, a work of profound beauty and drama. These opening cantatas are filled with some of Bach’s most memorable arias and choruses, showcasing his masterful orchestration and rich harmonic language. Soloists Anna Leese, Margot Button, Adrian Lowe, and Chalium Poppy will bring these narratives to life with their superb vocal artistry.
This promises to be an unforgettable evening of sublime music, uniting the full power of the choir, the grandeur of the orchestra, and the brilliance of our soloists. An essential event to experience the true spirit and joy of the holiday season.
With thanks to Cuningham Taylor Law, Principal Sponsor, and Mitre 10 MEGA Ferrymead, Concert Sponsor, for their support.
Contact person: Charlotte Ensor
Email: info@citychoir.co.nz
https://www.citychoir.co.nz/christmasoratorio2025.html

CBS Orchestra & Choir presents "Handel Messiah"
2025-12-07 13:30 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Orchestra & Choir presents “Handel Messiah” on Sunday 7th December 2025, 1.30 p.m. at Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
Pricing: $25.00 | $30.00 – Eftpos available
2025 Messiah Promo
2025 Messiah Poster

CBS Music presents "Wednesdays at One - Anne Lamont-Low, contralto"
2025-12-10 13:10 - 14:00 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Music presents “Wednesdays at One – Anne Lamont-Low, contralto” on Wednesday 10th December 2025 from 1.10 p.m. to 2.00 p.m. in the CBS Music Centre, Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
Past times in good company – revisited
A light lunch is available before each concert at 12.45 p.m. A wide range of performers is featured, in a superb acoustic, often using the Steinway concert grand piano, or the 4 manual Rodgers Infinity Platinum hybrid pipe /digital organ. Groups range in size from small chamber ensembles to full symphonic orchestras, with a particular focus on encouraging young performers, and inviting citizens to be welcomed into the central city Catholic church.
Organised by CBS Music: to nurture, conserve, inspire
Programme entry $15.00 (Eftpos)

The Cecilian Singers present "Concert: Songs of Women"
2025-12-12 19:00 - 20:15 | All Souls Church, 30 Church Lane, Merivale, Christchurch, 8014, New Zealand
The Cecilian Singers presents “Concert: Songs of Women” on Friday 12th December 2025, 7.00 p.m. to 8.15 p.m. at All Souls Church, 39 Church Lane, Merivale, Christchurch
Pricing:
$25.00 pre-sale https://events.humanitix.com/songs-of-women
$30.00 door sales
A choral concert of music about women, with soloists Nicola Holt, soprano and young cellist Benjamin Qin.
Music includes works by NZ composers as well as others including Pergolesi, Gjello and Poulenc.
Directed by Jessica Wells with accompaniment by Hsing-Yin Lin.
Contact person: Jenny Jamieson
Email: jay_jay@xtra.co.nz

CSO & Rova presents "Festive Christmas"
2025-12-13 18:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
CSO & Rova presents “Festive Christmas” on Saturday 13th December 2025, 6.30 p.m. in the Douglas Lilburn Auditorium, Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch
Get into the holiday spirit with CSO & Rova Present: Festive Christmas, a joyful night of music to warm your heart and fill you with cheer!
Join CSO, led by the NZ Assistant Conductor in Residence, as we deck the halls with Christmas treasures in a concert perfect for the whole whānau.
Whether you’re singing along to your favourite carols or enjoying the rich sound of the orchestra, this concert promises to leave you glowing with Christmas joy. Come celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with us.
NZ Assistant Conductor in Residence

CBS Orchestra & Choir presents "Summertimes Strings"
2026-02-01 14:00 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Orchestra & Choir presents “Summertimes Strings” on Sunday 1st February 2026, 2.00 p.m. at Catholic Pro Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
Programme Admission: $25.00 | $30.00
2026 CBS Feb 1 Poster
2026 CBS Feb 1 Promo

New Zealand International Piano Festival presents "Krzysztof Jabłoński Piano Solo Recital "Chopin's Greatest Hits"
2026-02-05 19:00 - 21:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
New Zealand International Piano Festival presents “Krzysztof Jabłoński Piano Solo Recital “Chopin’s Greatest Hits” on Thursday 5th February 2026, 7.00pm to 9.00 p.m. at The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch
Pricing: $90.00
As a key highlight of the Third New Zealand International Piano Festival, internationally renowned piano virtuoso Krzysztof Jabłoński will present an extraordinary musical feast for audiences. A Third Prize winner at the 11th International Chopin Piano Competition and a jury member for the 19th International Chopin Piano Competition in 2025, Jabłoński is celebrated worldwide for his impeccable technique and profound musical interpretations.
In this recital, Jabłoński will perform 16 iconic works by Chopin, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the timeless charm of Chopin’s music up close. This is a musical event not to be missed.
Concert Programme:
F. Chopin
Nocturne C sharp minor (Lento con gran espressione), 1830 (4’35”)
Fantasie-Impromptu C sharp minor Op. posth. 66 (4’56”)
Prelude D flat major Op. 24 No. 15 (4’53”)
Scherzo B flat minor Op. 31 (10’32”)
Nocturne C minor Op. 48 No. 1 (5’54”)
Etude C minor Op. 10 No. 12 (2’26”)
Polonaise A flat major Op. 53 (7’13”)
>>> intermission <<<
Prelude E minor Op. 28 No. 4 (2’20”)
Etude E major Op. 10 No. 3 (3’40”)
Waltz C sharp minor Op. 64 No. 2 (3’28”)
Nocturne E minor Op. 72 No. 1 (3’41”)
Waltz A minor Op. 34 No. 2 (4’30”)
Waltz A minor Op. Posth. (1’59”)
Etude B minor Op. 25 No. 10 (3’34”)
Ballade G minor Op. 23 (9’10”)
Andante Spianato & Grand Polonaise E flat major Op. 22 (13’30”)
Contact person: Jason Dong
Email: liangjunjason@gmail.com
Link: https://thepiano.nz/whats-on/krzysztof-jab%C5%82o%C5%84ski-piano-solo-recital/

Zonnis (Canadian Duo) Live @ Christchurch Folk Club
2026-02-15 19:00 - 22:00 | Irish Society Hall, 29 Domain Terrace, Christchurch, 8140
Zonnis (Canadian Duo) Live @ Christchurch Folk Club on Sunday 15th February 2026, 7.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. at Irish Society Hall, 29 Domain Terrace, Spreydon, Christchurch 8140
Pricing: $20.00 members | $25.00 non-members
Expect Laughter, Harmony, and Heart with Zonnis
Victoria’s own Zonnis have built an international reputation for their quirky charm, heartfelt songwriting, and ability to leave audiences smiling long after the show ends. Having performed at over 500 festivals and venues across 10 countries, the duo blends sharp wit, soulful folk-roots melodies, and real-life honesty into performances that are both hilarious and deeply moving.
Their music fuses warm vocal harmonies, rich storytelling, and a refreshing dose of theatrical playfulness—resulting in performances that feel intimate, hilarious, and deeply heartfelt all at once.
Contact person: Adam Zonnis
Email: zonnismusic@gmail.com
Link: https://zonnismusic.com/

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: A Rainey Day"
2026-02-16 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: A Rainey Day” on Monday 16th February 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Tom Rainey, whānau and friends perform jazz standards and favourite melodies to launch the 2026 Lunchtime Concert Series.
Whether conducting, composing, arranging or playing, Tom is a lynchpin of the musical landscape of Ōtautahi Christchurch and across the motu. As we return to the Great Hall stage for our 2026 lunchtimes, who better to launch the series than Tom and some of the finest musicians in the city? A great way to get the year started no matter the weather.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/a-rainey-day/

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra presents "Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Faure, Farr, Schumann"
2026-02-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Fauré, Farr, Schumann
Saturday 21 February 2026
7.30pm to 9.30pm
Douglas Lilburn Auditorium
Christchurch Town Hall
Ingrid Martin – Conductor
NZTrio
Programme:
Fauré – Pavane in F# minor Op. 50
Gareth Farr – Triple Concerto
Schumann – Symphony No. 1 in Bb Major Op. 38 ‘Spring’
Our Season 2026 opens on a graceful, wild and optimistic note.
Fauré’s Pavane floats in with the grace of its 16th-century court dance inspiration. Its haunting flute theme and delicate textures create an elegant, timeless atmosphere that once heard, is never forgotten.
NZTrio commissioned Aotearoa composer Gareth Farr to expand his Triple Concerto into a full-length work, which premiered in 2005 with CSO. Twenty years later, we’re delighted to reunite with NZTrio to bring it back to Ōtautahi. Farr said of the work, “I let the Trio play as if it was chamber music, there are tutti passages where the Trio plays in balance with the orchestra, and then orchestral passages where the Trio drops out and the orchestra goes wild!”
Written in just four days, Schumann’s Symphony No. 1, bursts open with glorious fanfare, announcing the arrival of spring. Composed at a moment of personal and creative renewal following his marriage to Clara Wieck, it’s a work that sings with freshness and a bubbling sense of joy and celebration throughout. There’s no grand philosophical statement here – Schumann is simply happy and invites us to revel in the moment.
With thanks to CSO Soloist Partner PKF Goldsmith Fox, and CSO Library Supporters Susan Henson & Thomas Young (Farr) and Jenny May ONZM (Fauré).
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/cso-lamb-farr-schumann/christchurch

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Fiona Pears Quartet
2026-02-23 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Fiona Pears Quartet” on Monday 23rd February 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Fiona is joined by Dan Robertson (piano), Pete Fleming (bass) and Doug Brush (drums), percussion to deliver waltzes for your lunchtime menu. From the tamest variation to the fiery tango, toes will be tapping.
Fiona Pears is a dynamic violinist renowned for her diverse musical style and captivating performances. With an extensive career that has taken her to concert halls across Asia, Europe, the UK, Ireland, and the US, she has connected with audiences through her unique sound.
As a composer, Fiona creates most of her own work and has arranged pieces for esteemed record labels such as Universal and EMI. She has composed and performed solo with renowned orchestras, including the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.
Fiona has also had the pleasure of performing at iconic venues such as Ronnie Scott’s in London and Joe’s Pub in New York.
Known for her unique fusion of genres, she draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of musical influences, including Irish, Gypsy Jazz, Classical, Tango, and more. This ‘melting pot’ creates her distinctive sound.
Currently, she is creating “For the Love of Music,” a collection of original compositions that blend her classical and jazz backgrounds into a personal fusion.
Based in New Zealand, Fiona remains dedicated to sharing her passion for music and connecting with audiences everywhere. www.fionapears.com
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/fiona-pears-quartet/

CBS Orchestra & Choir presents "Concert No. 2"
2026-03-01 14:00 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Orchestra & Choir presents “Concert No. 2” on Sunday 1st March 2026, 2.00 p.m. at Catholic Pro Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
Further details to follow.

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Flavio Villani (piano)"
2026-03-02 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Flavio Villani (piano)” on Monday 2nd March 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Flavio Villani, an Italian-New Zealand pianist, made Auckland his home after moving from Italy in 2008. Since then, he has been performing nationally and around the globe to great acclaim, composing and furthering his knowledge, and sharing his love of music.
In this concert, Flavio will perform works by Bach/Busoni and Franck.
About the Artist
Flavio Villani is an Italian-New Zealand pianist known for his expressive performances and international career. He completed his piano studies in Italy before earning a Master of Piano Performance with first-class honours at the University of Auckland with pianist Stephen De Pledge. He has recently finished his Doctoral studies at the University of Waikato under Katherine Austin, with further studies at the Guildhall School in London.
Flavio has performed at festivals such as the Venice Biennale, Lamezia Classica and Pianino in Europe, The Gurwitz in the US, and the Auckland Arts Festival and Christopher Classics in NZ. He has performed with orchestras including the Auckland Symphony and the Orchestra of CalArts. His performance with Orchestra Filarmonica della Calabria was documented in the biopic “Crossing Rachmaninoff” (2015). He is also the director of L’Accademia, a music school in Auckland dedicated to fostering musical excellence and connecting with the community through live music
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/flavio-villani-piano/

Waimakariri Community Arts Council presents "Flavio Villani - Memoria: Echoes and Transformations"
2026-03-04 13:10 - 13:50 | Chamber Gallery Rangiora, 141 Percival Street, Rangiora, 7400, New Zealand
Waimakariri Community Arts Council presents “Flavio Villani – Memoria: Echoes and Transformations” on Wednesday 4th March 2026, 7.30 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. at Chamber Gallery Rangiora.
Pricing: Adults $35.00 | Students $15.00
Memoria: Echoes and Transformations
Memoria: Echoes & Transformations unites classical and original music in an evening of reflection, renewal, and subtle emotional transformation. Pianist Flavio Villani presents a programme exploring how sound carries memory, reshapes emotion, and reveals new inner landscapes through its unfolding arcs.
Programme:
Bach-Busoni – Chaconne in D minor
In Memoriam Suite
Brahms – Rhapsody Op.79 n.1
Brahms – Intermezzi Op.117
Cesar Franck – Prelude, Choral et Fugue
The first half pairs the vast emotional arc of Bach–Busoni’s Chaconne with the intimate reflections of Villani’s In Memoriam Suite, shaped during a period of personal introspection. The second half moves toward Brahms’s Rhapsody Op.79 n.1—fiery, searching, and full of momentum—and his Intermezzi Op.117, described by the composer as “the lullabies of my sorrows”, before arriving at the spiritual architecture and luminous resolution of Franck’s Prélude, Choral et Fugue. Each work listens to what came before, creating an unfolding journey through longing, renewal, and the quiet transformations that emerge through sound.
Memoria: Echoes & Transformations offers an evening shaped by memory, imagination, and the gradual re-alignment of the inner world—where music unfolds not only as expression, but as a form of listening, understanding, and transformation.
About the Artist
Flavio Villani is an Italian–New Zealand pianist recognised for his expressive performances and international artistic activity. He completed his piano studies in Italy before earning a Master of Piano Performance with first-class honours at the University of Auckland under Stephen De Pledge. He is currently awaiting the final outcome of his Doctoral studies at the University of Waikato, supervised by Katherine Austin, with additional research undertaken at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.
Flavio has performed at festivals including the Venice Biennale, Lamezia Classica, and Pianino in Europe, The Gurwitz in the United States, and both the Auckland Arts Festival and Christopher Classics in New Zealand. He has appeared with orchestras such as the Auckland Symphony and the Orchestra of CalArts, and his performance with the Orchestra Filarmonica della Calabria was featured in the internationally screened documentary Crossing Rachmaninoff (2015).
He is the founder and director of L’Accademia, a music school in Auckland dedicated to high-quality musicianship and to cultivating a vibrant, inclusive community through live performance and education.
Contact person: Louise Johns
Email: chambergalleryrangiora@gmail.com
Link: https://www.chambergalleryrangiora.com/flavio-villani

2025/2026 National Concerto Competition Final
2026-03-07 19:00 - 21:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
2025/2026 National Concerto Competition Final is being held on Saturday 7th March 2026, 7.00 p.m. in the Douglas Lilburn Auditorium, Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch
Please click link below for further details regarding the Finalists
Finalists – 7th March 2026
Tickets will be available from Monday 2nd February 2026 at http://www.ticketmaster.co.nz
Pricing:
Adults | $49.50
Senior Concession | $44.50
Child/Student | $19.50

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Toi Toi Opera"
2026-03-16 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Toi Toi Opera” on Monday 16th March 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Ōtautahi’s own Toi Toi Opera is fast establishing a reputation as Aotearoa’s most exciting and innovative pint-sized professional opera company. Join a brilliant team of the company’s incredibly talented singers as they take you on an immersive journey into some of opera’s best-known and best-loved highlights in this gorgeous lunchtime concert.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/toi-toi-opera/

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Tiger Moth"
2026-03-23 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Tiger Moth” on Monday 23rd March 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
The seven jazz aviators return to the Great Hall stage. Enjoy the soaring vocals of Kate Taylor, powerhouse horn section from Scott Taitoko, Cam Pearce and Gwyn Reynolds, and tight rhythms from Tom Rainey, Mike Story and Luke Smillie. A fabulous selection of favourite melodies will be (circum)navigated
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/tiger-moth/

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra presents "Lamb & Hayward Curator's Series: Britten, Haydn"
2026-03-27 19:00 - 21:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
Lamb & Hayward Curator’s Series: Britten, Haydn
Friday 27 March 2026
7.oo pm to 9.00 pm
The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch
Benjamin Northey – Chief Conductor
Carleen Ebbs – Soprano
Britten – Les Illuminations Op. 18
Haydn – Symphony No. 45 in F# minor ‘Farewell’
Benjamin Britten’s Les Illuminations sets Arthur Rimbaud’s vivid French poems to music, exploring themes of youth, transformation and introspection. The work flows effortlessly between shimmering delicacy and moments of intense drama. We are delighted to welcome Aotearoa soprano Carleen Ebbs back to share the stage with CSO to bring Britten’s evocative sound world vividly to life.
Written during a long summer at the Esterházy estate, Haydn’s Symphony No. 45, famously known as the Farewell Symphony, combines wit, elegance, and a touch of humour. Its memorable finale features musicians quietly leaving the stage one by one – an ingenious hint to their patron Prince Nikolaus Esterházy (known for keeping his orchestra at the estate for long stretches), that their time away from home was long enough. This playful and charming symphony remains a beloved example of Haydn’s inventive spirit.
With thanks to PKF Goldsmith Fox, CSO Soloist Partner.
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/cso-lamb-hayward-curators-series-britten-haydn/christchurch

Resonance Ensemble presents Concert No. 1
2026-03-29 15:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
Resonance Ensemble presents Concert No. 1 on Sunday 29th March 2025, 3.00 p.m. at The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch
Conductor: Tony Ryan
Leader: Cornelia Didenco
Further details to follow

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Lumiere Trio (flute,/piccolo, piano)
2026-03-30 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Lumiere Trio (flute, flute/piccolo, piano)” on Monday 30th March 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Lumière Trio, established in 2024, consist of Johanna Gruskin (Principal Piccolo, NZSO), Hye-Won Suh (Principal Flute, CSO) and Jesse Oh who is about to embark his musical study in the United States this year. They are excited to share the beauty and versatility of the two flute (and sometimes piccolo) and piano ensemble.
Their sparkling repertoire offers flavours of Germany, Hungary, Britain, and Japan/France for your lunchtime fare.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/lumiere-trio/

CBS Orchestra & Choir presents "Bach St John Passion"
2026-04-03 20:00 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Orchestra & Choir presents “Bach St John Passion” on Friday 3rd April 2026, 8.00 p.m. at Catholic Pro Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
Further details to follow.

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra presents "Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Glinka, Britten, Shostakovich"
2026-04-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Glinka, Britten, Shostakovich
Saturday 18 April 2026
7.30pm to 9.30pm
Douglas Lilburn Auditorium
Christchurch Town Hall

Benjamin Northey – Chief Conductor
Jian Liu – Piano
Glinka – Ruslan and Lyudmila Overture
Britten – Piano Concerto Op. 13
Shostakovich – Symphony No. 1 in F minor Op. 10

Glinka’s rollicking Overture from the opera Ruslan and Lyudmila is one of the best-known orchestral show pieces. Rapid, driving rhythms and lyrical, courtly melodies open the curtain on a world of sorcerers, spells and swashbuckling romance – thrilling from the very first bar.
Britten premiered his own Piano Concerto in London in 1938, at the age of just 24, in a blazing display of bravura. This was Britten exuberant and unafraid. The reception was mixed, simply because the audience had literally never heard anything like it before. It is unashamedly virtuosic and unsparing in its demands of the soloist, and our soloist, Jian Liu, is more than up for the challenge when he joins CSO for this performance.
When the teenage Shostakovich presented his graduation project to the Petrograd Conservatory, he hardly expected to take the international music world by storm. Achieving nearly overnight international fame, his first symphony remains one of his most popular works. Constantly unpredictable, slipping easily between biting humour and tragic foreboding, it reveals a precocious command of orchestral colour and contrast that still keeps audiences on the edge of their seats a century later.
With thanks to CSO Soloist Partner PKF Goldsmith Fox, and CSO Library Supporters Gloria Street (Shostakovich) and Doris Barnard & Mark Hickman (Britten).
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/cso-lamb-hayward-masterworks-glinka-britten-shostakovich/christchurch

Martin Setchell Organ Concert
2026-04-19 15:00 | All Souls Church, 30 Church Lane, Merivale, Christchurch, 8014, New Zealand
Martin Setchell Organ Concert on Sunday 19th April 2026, 3.00 p.m. at All Souls, Merivale, Christchurch.
This is a fundraising concert for the Methodist Mission.

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Justine Cormack (violin) and Sarah Watkins (piano)"
2026-05-04 13:10 - 13:50 | Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, 8011
The Arts Centre Christchurch presents “Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: Justine Cormack (violin) and Sarah Watkins (piano)” on Monday 4th May 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Justine Cormack and Sarah Watkins, two of this country’s most beloved and respected musicians, have developed strong and successful careers both independently and together over the past 30 years. Raised in, nurtured, and inspired by Aotearoa New Zealand, these two kindred musical spirits have played together through high school and university in Christchurch, and were founding members of the ground-breaking NZTrio.
Join these award-winning artists for a performance of stunning violin and piano duos by Lilburn, Prokofiev and Debussy.
About Justine Cormack
Violinist Justine Cormack is AWE Festival Director and Concertmaster of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. A staunch advocate for creativity within Aotearoa New Zealand’s arts community, Justine actively supports and promotes creative communities both internationally and closer to home. Justine also collaborates broadly as a soloist, chamber musician and guest concertmaster.
Through her creative performance coaching business, ListenFeelPlay, Justine supports musicians worldwide, encouraging them to maximise their performance success and optimise their musical enjoyment through insightful mind and body awareness.
From 2002 to mid-2017, as a founding member and violinist of NZTrio, Justine performed throughout New Zealand, Australia, Asia, South America, the USA, Europe and Scandinavia. During this time, the group’s commitment and passion for promoting New Zealand music saw the commissioning and performing of close to 40 works from New Zealand composers, proudly showcasing these compositions within the trio’s diverse programmes on the national and global stage.
Other career highlights include her role as concertmaster with the Auckland Philharmonia from 2000-2004, and as lecturer in violin at The University of Auckland following the completion of her Doctor of Musical Arts Degree from Stony Brook University, NY, in 2001.
An active recording artist, Justine has soloed with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and released duo recordings with pianists Michael Houstoun and Sarah Watkins, in addition to a varied catalogue of award-winning releases with NZTrio.
Justine plays an 1868 J.B.Vuillaume violin.
About Sarah Watkins
Dr Sarah Watkins has enjoyed an impressive and busy career as a collaborative pianist. She performed across Australia, Asia, the USA and Europe as a founding member of NZTrio from 2002-2018, and now enjoys a wide variety of collaborations with musicians throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
In addition to NZTrio, she has been an official pianist for the Michael Hill International Violin Competition since its inception in 2001 and the Gisborne International Music Competition from 2008-2021, and has performed as a freelance player in the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and the Auckland Chamber Orchestra. Sarah has also appeared as concerto soloist with St. Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra, ACO, and the APO, and in 2014 recorded Chris Watson’s “sing songs self” for solo piano and orchestra with the NZSO, a composition which was awarded the prestigious 2015 SOUNZ Contemporary Award.
An award-winning recording artist, she was named Classical Artist of the Year with violist Robert Ashworth at the 2022 Aotearoa Music Awards for their CD “Moonstone”, and in 2020 with violinist Andrew Beer for their CD “11 Frames”; ‘Sway’ (NZTrio, 2017) and ‘Gung-ho’ (2009, with NZSO principal trombonist David Bremner) were both previous winners of the Vodafone NZ Music Award for best Classical album.
Sarah is a graduate of the University of Canterbury (NZ) and the Juilliard School in New York City, where she earned both Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in collaborative piano. While living in the US, Sarah worked as a staff pianist at Juilliard, Yale University, and the Aspen Music Festival. She also served as coordinator of the collaborative piano program at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, California, and spent several years on the music faculty of Purchase College, New York. During the period 2004-2009 NZTrio was ensemble-in-residence at the University of Auckland, where Sarah taught collaborative piano and chamber music; she returned there in 2019 as an artist teacher and chamber music coach, and in 2023 was appointed Senior Lecturer in piano.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/justine-cormack-violin-and-sarah-watkins-piano/

Waimakariri Community Arts Council presents "The New Zealand Quartet from the Storytellers series: Origins"
2026-05-07 19:30 - 21:00 | Chamber Gallery Rangiora, 141 Percival Street, Rangiora, 7400, New Zealand
Waimakariri Community Arts Council presents “The New Zealand Quartet from the Storytellers series: Origins” on Thursday 7th May 2026, 7.30 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. at Chamber Gallery Rangiora
Pricing: Adults $35.00 | Students $15.00. Tickets at Humanitix
Behind every piece of music is a story and across their 2026 Season, the New Zealand String Quartet is diving into them. Join them at Chamber Gallery Rangiora for an evening exploring a rich cross-section of compositional voices and celebrating the art of storytelling through music.
‘Origins’ opens with a piece composed especially for the NZSQ: Mika Cornelius’s Universal Veil, an ethereal and atmospheric trip through the lifecycle of fungi.
Schubert’s vibrant E flat major quartet shows the teenage composer finding his voice before Gareth Farr brings us home with the infectious personality of Mondo Rondo.Grammy nominee and ‘Brooklyn’s post-millennial Mozart’ (Time Out New York) Missy Mazzoli reimagines a harsh desert landscape into something wild and buoyant in Death Valley Junction.
Origins concludes with the cornerstone of the NZSQ’s 2026 Season, a tribute to Benjamin Britten as they play all three of his string quartets in the 50th year after his death. His first string quartet, written at 27 years old, prompted musicologist Peter Evans to declare him “a master of tonal architecture with scarcely a rival on the English scene.” It spans the intimate, restless and sublime and forms the perfect ending to our meditation on beginnings.
The concert programme, crafted in the NZSQ’s signature style, aims to engage audiences of all levels of familiarity with chamber music. Each piece of music is preceded by a lively and informative introduction delivered by the Quartet members themselves. These introductions seek to shed light on the stories behind the music, making it an enriching experience suitable for all audiences.
Contact person: Louise Johns
Email: chambergalleryrangiora@gmail.com
Link: https://www.chambergalleryrangiora.com/nz-string-quartet
