For more than 40 years, the Wanaka Concert Society has proudly played an important role in the culture of our region.
Wanaka Concert Society is an Incorporated Society and Registered Charity. Although many of its concerts are sourced through Chamber Music New Zealand and Arts on Tour, an increasing number of performers contact us directly, many of whom are top international musicians. We have hosted violinist Natalia Lomeiko twice and she is always keen to return. Natalia is the inaugural winner of the Sir Michael Hill International Violin Competition and is currently a Professor at the Royal College of Music, London. Jazz is very popular in Wanaka and in 2019 top American trumpet player, Allen Vizzutti and his wife, pianist Laura Vizzutti amazed the spell-bound audience with their unique techniques, sense of humour and sheer delight of performance. One of the aims of the Wanaka Concert Society is to support young people - admission is free to our concerts for students at school. Master classes are facilitated for music students by some of our visiting performers.<br><br>The Wanaka Concert Society is administered by an annually elected group of music lovers. The inspiration and work carried out by the founding committee over 40 years ago is very much appreciated. One of the wonderful projects undertaken was fundraising for and purchase of our Steinway Grand Piano, of which we are immensely proud. It is praised not only by local pianists but also acclaimed international pianists.<br><br>The Wanaka Concert Society appreciates the support of its donors, subscribers, sponsors and volunteers which enables us to present the very best of music available.
The Wanaka Concert Society was formed to present concerts and other entertainment for our local community. Our aim is to support our arts culture by promoting the enjoyment and encouragement of the performing arts.
Wanaka is a favourite destination for concerts and we are lucky to have so many wonderful musicians to choose from. In addition to the classical works of the well-known composers, less well known pieces are programmed which extend our knowledge and hopefully enjoyment of our contemporary composers. Other genres such as jazz and folk music are often included in the year's programme. When concerts are confirmed they are added to the website with information about date, venue and booking details.