Outstanding musicians on Rotorua stage

Rotorua has a rare chance to see three outstanding New Zealand musicians on the same stage this Sunday.

Guest conductor Holly Mathieson is joined by soloists Amalia Hall and Edward King at the Civic Theatre, and it's the chance to see why Mathieson beat out fierce competition to land the role of assistant conductor at the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

"Holly is one of only a handful of women in the world forging a career as an orchestral conductor. In the forthcoming season she has guest engagements across New Zealand, the United Kingdom and America, including a trial as music director of the Illinois Philharmonic," said Sharon Stephens, events manager for Orchestras Central.

"A conductor's job is complex and much more than just waving a baton around in time. They interpret the story behind a piece of music, and then communicate the thoughts and emotions to the audience through expert guidance of every player in the orchestra. Their gestures must be clear and match the character of the piece. In this way, conductors direct tempo, rhythm, volume, articulation and mood, all while following the many instrumental parts in the orchestral score," said Ms Stephens.

Mathieson will be conducting Mozart's Symphony No. 25 in G minor, a dramatic work full of rhythmic tension, and pushing the boundaries of "dark emotional restraint" typical of the classical era.

Brahms' Double Concerto for Violin and Cello in A minor will bring two soloists with flourishing careers overseas back to their home stage.

Hall is considered one of New Zealand's foremost young violinists, and is highly acclaimed for her ability to move audiences. She has won a number of international competitions, and while still in her teens, has won all the major national awards in New Zealand. Her extensive performing experience includes recitals and chamber music performances throughout Europe, the United States, and New Zealand.

Berlin-based, King is a graduate of the University of Waikato, the Leopold Mozart Center (Augsburg), and the University of the Arts in Berlin. He maintains a busy concert schedule in Europe and the United Kingdom. A recipient of many awards and scholarships, King is a Laureate of the Witold Lutoslawski International Cello Competition.

Releasing the Angel, a moving work by New Zealand composer Eve de Castro-Robinson, will feature him again as soloist in the concert.

What: Connections - Orchestras Central
Where: Civic Theatre
When: Sunday, 2pm.
Tickets:Through Ticketek. School children are free (require a ticket). Door sales also.