Cello prodigy to perform

Matthias Balzat's talent showed early, and he gained entry to Waikato University at just 14 years old. Photo/file

Opus Orchestra is touring with Kiwi cello prodigy Matthias Balzat.

Fresh off the competition circuit, Balzat took top honours as grand winner of the hotly-contested 50th National Concerto Competition.

This adds to his already-impressive list of prestigious awards, including winning the inaugural 2016 Wallace International Cello Competition.

"I'm so thrilled that Matthias won. He has been part of the Opus family for several years, so it's wonderful to celebrate his success by featuring him as soloist. Matti has a fine solo career ahead of him," says Opus music director Peter Walls.

He said his youth makes him the perfect inspiration for instrumental students. Opus offers free tickets to school-age children.

With three new Tauranga sponsors backing Opus (including TECT and Legacy Trust) the orchestra is saying thank you by giving back to the community. Parents/caregivers and teachers of students involved in classical music are eligible for free tickets. Additionally, Opus offers a free ticket to drivers of audience members no longer able to transport themselves.

"The April programme is designed as a Russian view of classical music, including Prokofiev's popular Classical Symphony. Matthias will perform an audience favourite in Tchaikovsky's beautifully crafted Variations on a Rococo Theme," says Walls.

the fine print
What: Opus Orchestra
Where: Bayourt ¦When: Saturday, April 1, 5pm
Tickets: orchestras.org.nz. Door sales available.