Musical talent on show at opera and concert events
Monday 1 August 2011, 4:03PM
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The New Zealand School of Music is indulging in midwinter midsummer madness with the first of two events being held this week.
On Wednesday it presents the New Zealand premiere of Benjamin Britten’s opera A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
The performances feature the finest of New Zealand’s emerging young singers tutored by New Zealand School of Music lecturers Margaret Medlyn, Richard Greager and Jenny Wollerman, together with the school’s Opera Orchestra.
Mr Greager describes the performance as a night of magic, enchantment and hilarity. “It is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to experience one of the finest operas of the 20th century,” he says. ““We’re very excited by the prospect of premiering this magical work here. It is an ideal vehicle for our school as there are 17 principal roles that give each singer an excellent opportunity to shine.”
The New Zealand School of Music is jointly run by Massey University and Victoria University.
The opera is being staged in the Student Union Building at Victoria University, Wellington at 7.30pm on Wednesday August 3, Friday August 5, Saturday August 6 and Tuesday August 9. Ticket prices, Adults $35, students $20 – online bookings through www.eventfinder.co.nz
On Sunday the school is co-hosting a concert with Dr Jack Richards who has established an annual scholarship, the J.C. Richards Music Scholarship for Overseas Postgraduate Study.
The concert features Australian pianist Tony Lee, New Zealand School of Music head of piano studies Jian Liu and postgraduate MMA candidate Buz Bryant-Greene in a triple bill called Keyboard Inspirations.
School of Music events coordinator Stephen Gibbs described all three pianists as superb soloists. “To have all three together in a single concert is a remarkable opportunity for audiences to enjoy their diverse artistry.”
All proceeds from the concert, being held in the Hunter Concert Chamber at 2.30pm on August 7, will be added to the scholarship. Tickets are either $30 for adults or $15 for students who book online through Eventfinder or, at the door, $35 for adults and $20 for students.