Community Engagement

Tune Up - Hiki Orotau

CSO musicians have learned from some of the greatest musicians and teachers in the world. They are links in a chain of transmission that began hundreds of years ago, and are eager to pass that knowledge on.

Programmes within Tune Up - Hiki Orotau are focused on developing the skills and talents of musicians in our community.

Masterclasses

Musicians of all ages and abilities are able to participate in, and observe, masterclasses led by CSO musicians.

Orchestra Sectionals

Respective String, Woodwind, Brass and Percussion sections from community orchestras fine tune their ensemble skills under the guidance of CSO musicians.

Chamber Music Weekend

Musicians from our community dive deep into the wonderful world of chamber music over one weekend, honing their skills and sharing their love of playing together.

Due to the Alert Levels, the 2021 Chamber Music Weekend has been postponed. We will advise you of the new date as soon as it is confirmed.

Internships

Through the generosity of sponsors Alison Barwick and Elaine P Snowden, the CSO has developed tailored programmes that support the musical development of young Christchurch musicians towards orchestral careers.

Ambassadors

Students from intermediate and secondary schools with a particular passion for orchestras, and for the CSO, get closer to the action. Ambassadors meet regularly with the musicians, conductors and soloists of the CSO, attend rehearsals and distribute complimentary tickets to their schools.

The CSO is now inviting intermediate and high schools in and around the greater Christchurch area to nominate students to become CSO Ambassadors. To register, please click on the links below to fill in the appropriate form. Registrations close on 1st March.

CSO Intermediate School Ambassadors Registration Form

CSO High School Ambassadors Registration Form

Big Play Out

We welcome individual musicians as well as High School and Community Orchestras to come along for a day that will include piano recitals, sectionals as well as a massed performance conducted by CSO’s Chief Conductor Benjamin Northey.

Sunday 15 August

9.30am – 11.30 am Combined full orchestra rehearsal alongside CSO Musicians

11.30am – 11.45am Break

11.45am – 12.30pm Combined full orchestra alongside CSO Musicians

1pm – 3pm Piano Recitals in the Ron Ball Studio on the Merle Carter Steinway D Piano

1pm – 5pm High School and Community Orchestra performances in the Lilburn Auditorium

6pm Concert including CSO performance, sectional performances and the Massed orchestra.

For more information, click here.