The Martinborough Music Festival begins on Friday – a three-day celebration of chamber music, and top New Zealand musicians.
Fresh snow on the Tararuas behind a Martinborough vineyard Photo: RNZ/Sally Round
Among the big names is Michael Houstoun, one of New Zealand’s premier pianists. Members of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra also perform, and acclaimed soprano Jenny Wollerman lends her voice.
The festival’s artistic directors Vicki Jones (former NZSO player) and Wilma Smith (former NZSO concert master) are thrilled that the festival was able to secure high profile musicians. In turn, each concert in the festival has sold out.
Michael Houstoun Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King
The festival is in its third year, having moved from St Andrew's Church to Martinborough’s Town Hall – the Waihinga Centre - which has recently undergone a $5 million make-over.
The duo says the festival’s repertoire has something for everyone, from works not often heard or performed, to pieces that are “everyone’s favourite party” pieces including the Mendelssohn Octet.
Martinborough Music Festival's Vicki Jones & Ian Creswell with the Schimmel piano Photo: Supplied
