The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: David McGregor (clarinet) and Sarah Watkins (piano)"
2026-09-21 13:10 - 13:50 (Pacific/Auckland) | 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: David McGregor (clarinet) and Sarah Watkins (piano)” on Monday 21st September 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
We are thrilled to welcome dynamic clarinet player David McGregor to the Great Hall stage. Currently Principal Clarinet in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and in demand for performances nationally and globally, David will be joined by the superb pianist Sarah Watkins to perform works by Saint-Saëns, Finzi, Debussy, and Bernstein.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/david-mcgregor-clarinet-and-sarah-watkins-piano/

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra presents "Lamb & Hayward Curator's Series: Gabrieli, Lilburn, Martinu"
2026-09-25 19:00 - 21:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
Lamb & Hayward Curator’s Series: Gabrieli, Lilburn, Martinů
Friday 25 September 2026
7.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m.
The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch
Gabrieli – Sonata pian’ e forte
Lilburn – Sinfonia for Strings
Martinů – Nonet No. 2 H.374

More than 400 years ago, Gabrieli’s Sonata pian’ e forte sent brass voices ringing through vast Venetian cathedrals. It pioneered the dramatic use of dynamics (contrasting loud and soft passages – the pian’ and forte of the title) and sounds that call and answer across the space, immersing listeners in a rich acoustic tapestry. It helped define the sound of the Venetian Renaissance – bold, breathtaking, and still captivating today.
Aotearoa composer Douglas Lilburn paints a deeply personal landscape in his Sinfonia for Strings, drawing its images from the pioneer sheep-farming hill country of his youth. Lush textures and inward lyricism reflect the composer’s deep connection to the Aotearoa landscape. CSO Concertmaster Justine Cormack leads the strings in drawing out both the intimacy and strength at the heart of this treasured work.
Composed in the final year of his life, Martinů’s Nonet No. 2 is a rare musical gem uncovered especially to delight Ōtautahi audiences. Scored for nine distinct wind and string instruments, it unfolds like a lively gathering where each voice shines solo yet blends beautifully into a joyful whole. Woven through the music are the spirited folk influences of Martinů’s Czech roots, grounding this bright and playful work in the traditions that shaped him.
With thanks to CSO Library Supporters Dr Kelvin & Mrs Carolyn Lynn (Gabrieli, Lilburn).
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/cso-lamb-series-gabrieli-lilburn-martin/christchurch

The Arts Centre Christchurch presents "Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series 2026: River City Jazzmen"
2026-09-28 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: River City Jazzmen” on Monday 28th September 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
The River City Jazzmen are coming back to the Christchurch scene after a hiatus. Their playing is bright and dynamic with well-crafted arrangements and tight ensemble work.
The band features Neill Pickard (banjo, vocals), Michael Fairhurst (trumpet, cornet, vocals), Allan Hawes (clarinet), Glyn MacDonald (trombone, piano), Dave Pitt (double bass), and Louie Moverley (drums). They guarantee to put a smile on your face and set your toes tapping. A fun Monday sorted.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/river-city-jazzmen/

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra presents "Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Elgar - The Dream of Gerontius"
2026-10-31 19:30 - 21:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
Lamb & Hayward Masterworks: Elgar – The Dream of Gerontius
Saturday 31 October 2026
7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
Douglas Lilburn Auditorium
Christchurch Town Hall

Benjamin Northey – Chief Conductor
Helen Sherman – Angel
Jared Holt – Gerontius
David Greco – Priest/Angel of Agony
CSO Chorus
Elgar – The Dream of Gerontius Op. 38

We close our season with Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius – a towering masterpiece of the choral repertoire. Written at the dawn of the 20th century, we follow the journey of a soul from death into the afterlife. Elgar’s writing is rich and deeply expressive, full of soaring melodies, dramatic intensity, and moments of hushed, transcendent beauty.
A true choral epic, The Dream of Gerontius features a full orchestra, three soloists, and the CSO Chorus at absolute full force – a highlight of every season. The sheer scale and emotional depth of the music offers a deeply moving, spiritual experience – one that lingers long after the final note.
A choral triumph, an orchestral feat, and a work of timeless resonance – it’s a fitting, unforgettable finale to our season.
With thanks to PKF Goldsmith Fox, CSO Soloist Partner and Young Hunter Lawyers, CSO Chorus Partner.
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/cso-lamb-hayward-masterworks-elgar-the-dream-of-gerontius2/christchurch

CBS Orchestra & Choir presents "Faure Requiem"
2026-11-01 14:00 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Orchestra & Choir presents “Faure Requiem” on Sunday 1st November 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: Karisruhe Konzert Duo (cello, piano)"
2026-11-02 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: Karisruhe Konzert Duo (cello, piano)” on Monday 2nd November 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
We are thrilled to be welcoming back the award-winning German ensemble of Reinhard Armleder (cello) and Dagmar Hartmann (piano), a very successful duo around the globe. The ensemble has won international competitions in Italy and France and toured worldwide to great acclaim. They are praised for fascinating their audiences with their brilliant technique and imaginative choice of programmes.
”… it is rare to find a duo with such a fortunate and intense combination of a kindred musicality, affinity and interaction with their instruments.”
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/karlsruhe-konzert-duo-cello-piano/

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra & Rova presents "Proms".
2026-11-28 19:30 - 21:30 | Isaac Theatre Royal, 145 Gloucester Street, Christchurch , 8011, New Zealand
CSO & Rova Present: Proms
Saturday 28 November 2026
7:30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
Isaac Theatre Royal, 145 Gloucester Street, Christchurch
Vincent Hardaker – Conductor

CSO’s iconic Proms returns for another spectacular year, where music, community, and celebration come together in perfect harmony!
Get ready for a lively evening filled with iconic singalong favourites from the Proms tradition, alongside stirring orchestral pieces that reflect the vibrant spirit of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Featuring talented guest soloists from across the motu, and longtime collaborator Christchurch City Choir.
Whether you’re a seasoned Proms fan or this is your first time joining the party, bring your voice, your flags, and your festive spirit for a night that’s pure celebration – perfect for the whole whānau.
Presented in association with Runacres Insurance.
https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show.aspx?sh=CSOPROMS26

Resonance Ensemble presents Concert No. 4
2026-11-29 15:00 | The Piano, 156 Armagh Street, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand
Resonance Ensemble presents Concert No. 4 on Sunday 29th November 2026, 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: Jennine Bailey (voice) and Tom Rainey (piano)"
2026-11-30 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: Jennine Bailey (voice) and Tom Rainey piano)” on Monday 30th November 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Jennine Bailey has built an enviable reputation, in Christchurch and beyond, for her ability to perform poignant ballads, jazz standards and stunning covers of such vocal divas as Eva Cassidy, Nina Simone and Aretha Franklin.
With superb skills and sublime tone, Jennine will be joined by Tom Rainey (piano) and Mike Story (bass) to present a polished, professional performance of much-loved melodies.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/jennine-bailey-voice-and-tom-rainey-piano/

CBS Orchestra & Choir presents "Handel Messiah"
2026-12-06 13:30 | Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street Christchurch Central, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
CBS Orchestra & Choir presents “Handel Messiah” on Sunday 6th December 2026, 1.30 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: Symposium Dectet"
2026-12-07 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: Symposium Dectet” on Monday 7th December 2026, 1.10pm to 1.50pm, Great Hall, The Arts Centre, Christchurch
Pricing: $5 | $20
Symposium Dectet is a ten-piece jazz ensemble made up of Ōtautahi’s finest musicians. Join them for an unashamedly jazzy celebration of all things Christmas. Guaranteed to get you in a festive mood.
Contact person: The Arts Centre
Email: info@artscentre.org.nz
Link: https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/symposium-dectet/

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra & Rova present "A very CSO Christmas"
2026-12-12 18:30 - 20:30 | Christchurch Town Hall, Kilmore Street, Christchurch, 8011
CSO & Rova Present: A Very CSO Christmas
Saturday 12 December 2026
6:30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Douglas Lilburn Auditorium
Christchurch Town Hall
NZ Assistant Conductor in Residence

Celebrate the festive season with CSO in a joyful evening of music that’s brimming with holiday spirit. Featuring timeless carols, sparkling orchestral favourites, and a few magical surprises along the way, this concert is the perfect way to wrap up your year.
Whether you’re coming with friends, whānau, or flying in solo on Santa’s sleigh, you’ll be treated to a night of uplifting music and merry moments. Expect the full warmth and colour of the orchestra at its most celebratory – from shimmering strings and golden brass to the quiet moments that capture the wonder of the season.
Join us for an evening filled with twinkling lights, joyful melodies, and the warmth of community.
https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/cso-rova-present-very-cso-christmas/christchurch
