Christchurch Symphony Orchestra | Grenfell, Tchaikovsky, Bartók

Benjamin Northey | Chief Conductor

Alexander Gavrylyuk | Piano

Maria Grenfell | Stealing Tutunui

Tchaikovsky | Piano Concerto No. 1 in Bb minor Op. 23

Bartók | Concerto for Orchestra

We celebrate the vibrant career of Ōtautahi-raised composer Maria Grenfell with her work Stealing Tutunui. She brings to life the Māori story of the chief Tinirau, his whale Tutunui, and the sinister Kae, using the many colours of the orchestra.

Described as “easily the most compelling pianist of his generation,” Ukrainian-born Australian pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk is internationally recognized for his electrifying performances. Currently Artist in Residence at Wigmore Hall, London, he joins CSO to perform Tchaikovsky’s majestic Piano Concerto No. 1 – a popular favourite for concert pianists and audiences around the world.

Each section of CSO will take a turn in the spotlight during Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra – a masterpiece that highlights what we all love about the orchestra. It shows off the many sides to Bartók’s style: melodic charm, shadowy intensity, moments of rhythmic party music, and a notable 'Game of Couples' movement, where the families of woodwind and brass present themselves in pairs, offering a truly musical parade of our local talent.