Education & Links

The Taranaki Symphony Orchestra supports ongoing music education in a number of ways.

We hold a Concerto Competition biennially. Young local musicians were invited to prepare a movement of a concerto or similar piece and to perform it with piano accompaniment for a panel of judges. Soloists for the subsequent "Student Stars" concert  are chosen from among the entrants. Both the competition and the concert are proving very popular and hugely successful, providing a really valuable and unique performance opportunity for the young musicians.

 The TSO supports the Taranaki Youth Orchestra with the loan of instruments, music and equipment, and many orchestra members assist with coaching, sectional practices and filling in for missing instruments. The Taranaki Youth Orchestra caters for young musicians of intermediate and secondary school age, and offers opportunities for playing at a level beyond that which school orchestras can attain, as well as a chance to work with like-minded young people from across the region. It is conducted by Jody Thomas and rehearsals are currently Tuesday nights during term time from 5.15 pm - 7.00 pm at New Plymouth Methodist Centre, Liardet Street, New Plymouth. For more information contact Jody Thomas:  trombonejody@gmail.com.

Many players regularly attend intensive music schools in the region, including the Bay of Plenty Music School each April, the Auckland String Quartet Summer School in January, and the Hutt Valley Orchestra Concert Weekend (usually August). Occasionally the TSO sponsors members to attend the Bay of Plenty Music School, and assists with the loan of instruments, equipment and expertise.

From time to time, the TSO has organised special workshops and masterclasses with expert tutors. These have included in the past: String Workshop with Adam Jasinski; Clarinet and Bassoon with Ashley and Jacqui Hopkins; Bassoon with Craig Bradfield; Percussion with Leonard Sakofsky; Piano with Matteo Napoli and Conducting with Uwe Grodd.

The TSO provides a prize for Best Wind Player at the New Plymouth Competitions each year.