Swiss ovation for NZSO as dream run continues

NZSO Media Release for immediate release

Swiss ovation for NZSO as dream run continues

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra's dream run continues in Europe, with a capacity standing ovation tonight at Lucerne's prestigious KKL concert hall.

The NZSO flew the flag for New Zealand music in Switzerland, performing works by David Farquhar and Ross Harris, as well as Douglas Lilburn's Aotearoa.

Music Director Pietari Inkinen led two encores and received repeated calls from a standing audience, in what he said felt like a rock star reception.

"The atmosphere was electrifying. I was especially pleased because this was among the two most awaited concerts of our tour," he said.

The NZSO's weekend concert at Vienna's Musikverein was described by Arts Minister Chris Finlayson as extremely important for New Zealand's reputation.

Meanwhile the Badische Zeitung newspaper in the German city of Freiberg has reported that the NZSO "demonstrated that they can, without fear, allow themselves to be compared with leading European ensembles".

The KKL is an architectural landmark in Lucerne and plays host to some of the world's best orchestras.

The NZSO's biggest ever international tour continues tomorrow in Geneva and ends in Germany on 16 November.

ENDS

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