Major sponsor of Christchurch Symphony outreach

28 February 2008

Solid Energy major sponsor of Christchurch Symphony Orchestra Outreach and Education Programme

Solid Energy, a major New Zealand energy company and a leading producer of high-quality coal, is to be the major sponsor of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra’s Outreach and Education Programme.

Solid Energy has extended its support for the programme over the next two years, to $75,000 per annum, to include support for the Secondary Schools’ Festival and the Big Bang Programme in Christchurch and will continue support for the programme on the West Coast and in Southland.

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra’s Outreach and Education programme is a music education and community based project, primarily aimed at primary and secondary school children. The programme’s objectives are to educate and entertain, and to introduce young people to the Orchestra and a wide range of orchestral music, including many New Zealand compositions.

Barry Bragg, Solid Energy’s Chief Operating Officer, says “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to give something back to the West Coast, Southland and Canterbury communities in which we operate. Many people, especially the children, rarely have a chance to experience live classical music, let alone play and interact with professional musicians.

“In 2007 more than half of all school age children on the West Coast were reached by the Outreach Programme which is a great achievement. We hope this programme will foster real talent and an interest in music amongst young people, and give great enjoyment to the community as a whole.”

Murray Shaw, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra Chief Executive Officer says “This very welcome support gives us the opportunity to plan the Outreach and Education programme well in advance and to enhance the musical experience even further. Solid Energy’s inspired support is a real example of corporate good-citizenship in action.”

The Outreach and Education programme is fully dependant on non-Government funding. Solid Energy’s support is a significant commitment that will enable Christchurch Symphony Orchestra to continue the programme on the West Coast, Southland and Canterbury. The programme also runs in Nelson and Marlborough.

Planning for the West Coast, Southland and Canterbury programme is currently underway, with dates and details yet to be confirmed. It will comprise a touring ensemble of Christchurch Symphony Orchestra musicians who will give master classes, workshops and performances, including chamber music coaching, one-on-one coaching, sectional training and conducting and composition courses. The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra ensembles will also perform with local community orchestras and brass bands, and give recitals at retirement villages and rest homes.

ENDS

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