Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra
BY, WITH AND FOR THE COMMUNITY
Engaging orchestra experiences that enrich the lives of community, players and audiences in Hamilton and across the wider Waikato.
The Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra is one of the longest-established orchestras in New Zealand. The 160 community musician members include amateur players, music students and instrumental music teachers, all drawn from the Waikato region, with players ranging in age from 18 to 80.
“What a wonderful diverse programme! It was exciting, but most of all, couldn’t get over the richness of sound that hasn’t been there before especially in the strings. The cohesion and balance was a joy and the warmth that came through from the strings was heart-warming. It was a wonderful afternoon. Thank you once again” - Audience member
Our History
As a community-based orchestra, TWSO advances education, public understanding and appreciation of the arts through the promotion of and participation in concerts, workshops, musical performances and composition.
The orchestra encourages and fosters musical activities in all forms in the community, provides an excellent opportunity for players at all levels to gain valuable experience and consistently brings high standards of performance to the public of the Waikato and beyond.
“Brilliant concert! … I felt really spoilt as a mother with children in different cities to have a lovely concert to go to, and to have a chocolate! … It was so cool to look at the orchestra from a different perspective … What came across was that they looked happy to be on stage. I was also struck by what a stable group it is. Lots of the people have been playing together for a long time” - Audience member
Highlights of the TWSO year are:
- Sunset Symphony as part of the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival with around 5000 people enjoying music under the stars on the Gardens' beloved Rhododendron Lawn.
- Annual Tamariki and Whaanau Concert Series for over 1000 children and their families.
- Sunday afternoon concert performances of well-loved orchestral works.
The orchestra also enjoys collaborations with other arts groups from the region and local and national soloists.
“This concert could not have happened without heaps of work over months from each one involved. This communal cooperation and good live music make the world a better place. It is indeed a very special experience and privilege for me to be involved with and know TWSO’s dedicated, hard working group of musicians and staff” - TWSO musician
We are always looking for passionate musicians to join our orchestra!
Rehearsals are at the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts on Monday nights. It’s a wonderful spot for practising as the acoustics are fantastic and the building is beautiful. There is lots of space and parking, as well as a social area.
Naming Sponsor
We are extremely grateful to our naming sponsor, Trust Waikato.
