NZSO proves world-class status at Musikverein

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra has proved it can foot it with the world's best after performing to a rapturous reception tonight at Vienna's Musikverein, Europe's most hallowed concert hall

The NZSO performed by invitation to a sold-out audience in Vienna, playing New Zealand composer Douglas Lilburn's Aotearoa, as well as Tchaikovsky and Sibelius.

Music Director Pietari Inkinen returned to the stage for multiple calls and two encores before an audience which included the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Chris Finlayson.

Pietari Inkinen said the performance had been career-defining.

"It was definitely one of the best concerts of my career so far. The orchestra played the best I've heard them play, and the audience was so rapturous - even more than I would ever have imagined."

Mr Finlayson said the Musikverein was arguably the world's top venue and the concert was extremely important for New Zealand's reputation.

"We all know the NZSO is a world-class orchestra and we've now shown that to the Viennese, who are well-known for being among the most critical audiences in the world."

The acoustically-perfect Musikverein is considered among the finest venues ever built, and is the classical music equivalent of playing test rugby at Twickenham.

The Vienna concert represents the highlight of the NZSO's biggest ever international tour.  The orchestra performs next in Switzerland, and ends its 12-date tour in Germany on 16 November.