Five Lines is a collection of writings about music in Aotearoa New Zealand by Elizabeth Kerr. It features short articles, artist profiles and reviews of concerts, operas and albums. You can subscribe - it’s free - at the bottom of any story.
Gemma New: the NZSO’s new Principal Conductor
Gemma New’s appointment as Principal Conductor of the NZSO has been greeted with delight in her home country. For this rising international star of the podium, it is a dream come true.
The conductor’s art
Gemma New visited New Zealand recently to conduct the NZSO and National Youth Orchestra in music by Gareth Farr, Stravinsky and Shostakovich. She brought both musical understanding and composing skill to the podium.
Inspired by a frozen continent
Composer Ihlara McIndoe’s new work for the NZSO NYO, Ephemeral Bounds, was inspired by the sounds she found in Antarctica.
Stars align
Gareth Farr is enormously proud of his new work for the NZSO, Ngā Hihi o Matariki (The Rays of Matariki).
An award-winning conductor rolls up her sleeves
Kiwi conductor Holly Mathieson, Music Director of Symphony Nova Scotia, is in New Zealand for concerts with the NZSO and APO.
Soldiers’ lament
A new release of Michael Williams’ 1st Symphony gives welcome longer life to a powerful musical statement.
Orchestral manoeuvres
New Zealand’s orchestras are broadening their audiences with innovative approaches.
Sugar and spice for a ballet
Claire Cowan’s brilliant orchestral score for the Royal NZ Ballet’s Hansel and Gretel is now available on a stylish CD.
Passionate cello recalls dark days
Cello concertos by Edward Elgar and Gareth Farr are brought to passionate life on a new CD.
On the podium in a pandemic
Conductor Gemma New came to New Zealand to conduct the NZSO in six concerts. In these uncertain times, plans change suddenly.
Beethoven, again!
Is it possible to have too much Beethoven in concert programmes in this musical giant’s 250th birthday year?
The virtual concert hall
With audiences and musicians in lockdown during the COVID-19 crisis, musicians resorted to the virtual concert hall to bring their music into our homes.
Happy birthday, Ludwig!
Celebrating the birthday of a towering music figure during a global pandemic - and why I revere Beethoven.