Recently described by conductor Sir William Southgate as ‘...a minor miracle which boxes way above its weight’, the Christchurch Symphony is one of New Zealand’s small number of professional orchestras and is a vital part of a vibrant artistic scene in Christchurch. Founded almost 30 years ago, it has built up a core of over 30 professional players, which it augments when required with other talented players in the Christchurch region.

Under Music Director Marc Taddei the orchestra has embarked on a strategy of expanding its range and versatility. Its annual programmes span the ages and styles from the Baroque to the great Bruckner and Mahler symphonies. Its ‘pop’ programme features top New Zealand and overseas artists such as Bic Runga and Midge Marsden. Marsden’s performance of the late William Russo’s Three Pieces for Blues Band, was both a new direction for the orchestra and enthusiastically received by audience and critics alike.

Its programmes have included works by New Zealand composers Douglas Lilburn, Gareth Farr and Chris Cree Brown and Ewan Clark. The Christchurch Symphony also tours to South Island centres and is regularly engaged by, amongst others, Canterbury Opera, the Christchurch City Choir and the Royal New Zealand Ballet.

The Christchurch Symphony has released two previous recordings, Live at the Proms and the much-acclaimed Landmarks, a compilation from the orchestra’s repertoire.
AMI Insurance is Christchurch Symphony’s principal sponsor and its generous assistance enabled the orchestra to participate in this recording.