ASB Classical Sparks

Prepare yourself for another first class evening of classical music when the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra (CSO) takes to the stage under the baton of Ken Young.

Ken will lead the orchestra through a programme that is innovative, classical and modern as they perform a medley of movie themes from some of Hollywood’s most well-known and well-loved masterpieces.

Gareth Farr’s extraordinary composition ‘Aoraki’ will be a stand out performance with involvement of the Christchurch City Choir and the Te Ahikaaroa Kapa Haka group. The winner of this year’s Queenstown Violin Summer School will enjoy a rare opportunity to perform with the CSO in front of the 100,000 strong audience.

Performers Rachel Doig and Maree Hawtin-Morrow will perform 'The Flower Duet' from the opera 'Lakme', while leading New Zealand oboist Peter Dykes will take the audience through Ennio Morricone's theme 'Gabriel's Oboe', from 'The Mission'. Kevin Lefohn, violinist and Artistic Director of the CSO, will stun the audience with a performance of the theme from 'Schindler's List'.

Naomi Ferguson, one of New Zealand’s leading singer-songwriters, will join forces with Matthew Pike, fresh from recent performances in ‘Miss Saigon’, to present a vocal compilation of themes from other great movies. The ‘Warsaw Concerto’ will provide a fitting soundtrack to the fireworks finale.

Don’t miss the opportunity to also enjoy performances by five groups of local primary and intermediate students as part of ASB Classical Kids from 7pm. Bring a picnic dinner, pack your rug or chairs and prepare yourself for a magical night of musical brilliance all set against the beautiful backdrop of Hagley Park.

Rain date: February 6.