NZSO returns to Tauranga on 9 May

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra returns to Tauranga in May to perform two exhilarating symphonies by classical giants Tchaikovsky and Beethoven and more in an unforgettable concert experience.

Led by the NZSO’s Music Director Emeritus James Judd, Resurgence on 9 May will burst with energy, colour and audience favourites.

Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, one of his most acclaimed and loved works, premiered to wildly ecstatic applause, including its iconic Allegretto.

Tchaikovsky’s Second Symphony, nicknamed ‘Little Russian’ but more accurately thought of as his Ukrainian Symphony, shines with its loving use of Ukrainian folk melodies.

Similarly, contemporary American composer Jessie Montgomery draws on folk and popular traditions in the NZSO debut of her renowned work Strum, inspired by Appalachian fiddle music and jazz—resulting in a piece that, as the composer writes, “transforms into ecstatic celebration.”

At the heart of Resurgence, Tauranga will be treated to Fanfare Kotahitanga, a brand‑new work by acclaimed Kiwi composer Anthony Ritchie—a fresh commission that promises to shine brightly among the evening’s beloved classics. With its character, craft, and irresistible personality, Ritchie’s piece is set to become another musical gem in this concert of favourites, offering audiences something both new and immediately memorable.

Before the evening performance, the NZSO will perform a Relaxed Concert at 1.30pm, designed for neurodivergent audiences.

Free tickets can be booked through the orchestra’s website at nzso.co.nz.

The Relaxed Concert, presented in association with Autism NZ and hosted by NZSO Animateur Chris Lam Sam, includes a short Q&A and meet-and-greet with NZSO musicians.

The NZSO Relaxed Concerts are tailored specifically for people from the neurodivergent, autism and disability communities. They have a relaxed attitude to noise and movement during the performance, minimal lighting effects, a ‘chill-out’ space and, where possible, traditional applause from the audience is replaced by silent NZ Sign Language applause.

The NZSO always looks forward to performing in Tauranga, one of the orchestra’s most enthusiastic and welcoming musical communities.

Join Maestro Judd and the orchestra for a spectacular celebration of music old and new at the Baycourt Theatre. This is an experience not to be missed.