Showcase of New Zealand Music for Orchestra

To all Chief Journalists, Editors, Arts Editors
PRESS RELEASE for immediate use:

Showcase of New Zealand Music for Orchestra

On November 6th and 7th the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra conducted by Hamish McKeich will showcase seven works by Kiwi composers in the eleventh session of NZSO-SOUNZ Readings.

A collaboration between the NZSO and SOUNZ, the Centre for New Zealand Music, the Readings aim to increase the opportunities for the performance and broadcast of works by New Zealand composers.

Works by Helen Bowater, Claire Cowan, Alison Grant, Julie Johnson, Stephan Prock and Anthony Young will feature, representing a wide variety of stylistic influences from neo-baroque dances to twentieth-century minimalism. Added to the line-up are movements from Michael Vinten’s Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Orchestra featuring acclaimed soloist Simon Brew. Young composer, Claire Cowan was NZSO National Youth Orchestra Composer-in-Residence this year.

Not only are these New Zealand composers crafting their works in a variety of styles, but they also come from a variety of places. These readings will see composers from as far apart as Christchurch and Waiheke Island converge on Wellington for two enjoyable days.

Since being established in 1998 over fifty works have come through the NZSO-SOUNZ Readings, however this is merely a glimpse of the vast New Zealand orchestral repertoire. Works that have received a reading have gone on to enjoy further successes, including performances at home and overseas, or released on CD. It is hoped that through the Readings many other fine works will come to the attention of audiences and orchestras.

Observers are welcome to attend. People who would like to receive an invitation can contact SOUNZ, the Centre for New Zealand Music, at info@sounz.org.nz or by phoning (04) 801 8602.
 
ENDS

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