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Orchestra wellington community

Community

Bringing music out of the concert hall into every corner of our city

Music for our Communities

Our community performances and education programmes demonstrate the strong commitment to families, community, and future generations that is central to the mahi of Orchestra Wellington. We perform for thousands of children annually through our Music to Schools programme, promote pathways to musical training through our scholarship programmes, and craft exciting musical experiences to cater to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Our partnerships with community-based music education initiatives like Arohanui Strings+ and others ensure that we are embedded in our communities for greater social impact.

Our community work

Supporting New Zealand composition is also important to us, which is why we boast about having New Zealand’s longest running, continuous Composer-In-Residence programme.

Other events on our calendar that support New Zealand composition include the annual SOUNZ Commission for Orchestra and Sistema Youth Orchestra, Te Tono Mahinga a SOUNZ mā te Rāngai Puoro me te Rāngai Puoro Taiohi a Sistema; singer-songwriter competitions; and regular Composer Sessions, which together provide a strong platform for education and exposure of emerging and experienced composers alike.

Performances celebrating cultural diversity and community are a core part of our activity including events such as CubaDupa, Pasifika Concerts with the award-winning Signature Choir, Classical on Cuba, Matariki Ahi Kā Festival, Wellington Pride, the annual Orchestra Wellington Big Bash festival, and more.

Stories from the community

“Orchestra Wellington’s scholarship has given me the opportunity to further explore music, improve my violin skills, and building confidence through performing. This year, I was also very lucky to be able to take my first Trinity exam. All of this has made me more determined and to continue my violin journey. ”

— 2025-26 SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT

“Loved having the chance to work with a professional working musician and see them in action. Learnt so much just in that short time. Was a brilliant and unforgettable experience. Loved it!”

— big bash participant

“‘The Orchestra Wellington scholarship has greatly benefited me by building my confidence and giving me special opportunities to perform on a big stage. Through regular lessons and performances, I have become more comfortable playing in front of audiences and have grown as a musician. "

— 2025-26 SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT

“My daughter loved playing the violin with the orchestra and learning new music! Thank you for the memorable experience.”

— Parent

“The cello isn't just wood and wires. To me it is a continuous timeline from the day that I started. It shows who I am just by how I play it. This scholarship helps me with my cello because it teaches me to be more persistent with my learning and to put all my effort into my music. ”

— 2025-26 SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT

SOUNZ Commission

Our annual SOUNZ Commission engages the talents of an up-and-coming New Zealand composer to write an original work for our side by-side concert with Arohanui Strings, included on our fifth Subscription Series performance of the season.  

How to Apply

We are PLAYING FOR YOU.

From unforgettable performances at the Michael Fowler Centre to vibrant events across Wellington’s streets, neighbourhoods, and shared spaces, Orchestra Wellington brings live music to the heart of our city and throughout the Wellington region. We perform alongside leading artists and creative partners, celebrate the moments that matter to our community, and create experiences that are welcoming, exciting, and alive with possibility.

Whether you are a lifelong concert-goer or discovering orchestral music for the first time, there is a place for you here. Explore what’s coming up and experience the energy, connection, and power of your orchestra.

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From the enthralling performances at the prestigious Michael Fowler Centre to dynamic street concerts in iconic Wellington locations, every interaction with us is an immersive journey into the heart of live orchestral music.