NZCT Chamber Music Contest - 2026 Chamber Season Highlights
Wellington District Finalists, 2026 NZCT Chamber Music Contest
It has been a rewarding season working with our young musicians in preparation for the 2026 NZCT Chamber Music Contest. Across months of rehearsal, students refined their interpretations, learned to listen closely to one another, and built the kind of trust that only comes from working through difficulty together. Their focus and commitment showed clearly on stage.
Ensemble Highlights
The Swiss Watchmakers - William, Kaydi, Miles, Amelia
Wellington District Finalists - Highly commended
Central Regional Final - 1st place award
National Finalists
Performing Ravel's La Valse for two pianos, eight hands, this ensemble navigated the challenge of a traditional two-piano layout that leaves players unable to see one another. Their careful listening and physical cueing brought a genuine sense of ensemble to a demanding work, carrying them all the way to the National Final.
Triple Shot - Hamish, Liam, Miles
Coached in collaboration with Lynley Culliford
Wellington District Finalists - Highly commended
Central Regional Finalists
Performing the Romance from Lalo's Piano Trio No.1 alongside the Presto from Beethoven's Piano Trio in E-flat, Op.1 No.1, this ensemble showed real range, moving from Lalo's rich, expressive lyricism to Beethoven's demanding precision and articulation. The Presto in particular became a crowd favourite, and they delivered it with the kind of energy that brought the house down.
Treble Makers - Whitney, Izabela, Amelia Liu
Coached in collaboration with Donald Armstrong
Performing the first two movements of Moszkowski's Suite in G minor, Op.71, this ensemble of three Year 9 students took on a demanding piece that pushed all three to grow considerably over the season.
Many thanks to my colleagues for their collaboration and guidance in coaching these ensembles this season. It has been a privilege to witness each group's growth in confidence, skill, and musicality.
We are incredibly proud of all our ensembles for their hard work, dedication, and musical growth this season. Special congratulations again to The Swiss Watchmakers, and we look forward to supporting them at the National Final in Christchurch on 1 August.
