New Zealand String Quartet And Orchestra Wellington To Present A Powerful Shostakovich Anniversary Concert

Two of Aotearoa’s oldest classical music organisations, the New Zealand String Quartet (NZSQ) and Orchestra Wellington, are coming together to present the first event in a powerful four-part concert series, “Shostakovich: UNPACKED,” commemorating the 50th anniversary of the death of the composer, Dmitri Shostakovich.

The series is presented by the NZSQ and will see the ensemble collaborate with a range of esteemed Wellington artists across four intimate gatherings. Orchestra Wellington will help launch the series with two concerts, hosted at Prefab Hall in Wellington, on Wednesday 9 July at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Subsequent concerts in the series, spread over five months, will see the NZSQ musicians perform alongside the newly established Antipodes Quartet, the beloved Ghost Trio and celebrated pianist, Jian Liu.

“This significant anniversary has been in our diary for a long time and to celebrate it with our friends at Orchestra Wellington is truly special,” says Charlie Macfarlane, NZSQ General Manager. “This collaboration will offer audiences a profound, immersive experience and a chance to explore how Shostakovich’s music remains deeply relevant today.”

Each concert programme features music by Shostakovich and New Zealand composers for a unique range of chamber ensembles. The series opener with Orchestra Wellington will feature Shostakovich’s poignant 3rd String Quartet alongside his intensely felt Chamber Symphony, an adaptation of his powerful 8th String Quartet. This latter piece is regularly acknowledged as one of the most profound and intense experiences in classical music.

Beyond Shostakovich, the evening will also “unpack” the music of celebrated composers Alfred Schnittke and Tatiana Riabinkina, offering a fascinating dialogue between Shostakovich’s legacy and the voices of contemporary artists in Aotearoa and beyond.

Tickets for “Shostakovich: UNPACKED | NZSQ + Orchestra Wellington” range from $15 to $55, with a special season pass available for all four concerts at $180 per person.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the powerful collaboration of the New Zealand String Quartet and Orchestra Wellington as they delve into the raw emotion and enduring significance of Dmitri Shostakovich’s music.

What: Shostakovich: UNPACKED | NZSQ + Orchestra Wellington

When: Wednesday 9th July, 6:30 pm & 8:30 pm

Where: Prefab Hall, 14 Jessie Street, Wellington

Artists: New Zealand String Quartet + Orchestra Wellington

Tickets: $15 - $55, Season Pass (all four concerts): $180

Ticket Link: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2025/shostakovich-unpacked-with-orchestra wellington/wellington

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