The chamber calls

by Metropol | April 1, 2026 8:36 am

String music brilliance returns to Rangiora with a powerful programme celebrating storytelling through sound.

This year, the New Zealand String Quartet returns to Rangiora for the first time since 2008 with their 2026 season tour: Storytellers. On Thursday 7 May and during NZ Music Month, the concert will showcase a vibrant programme titled Origins, celebrating the art of storytelling and exploring a rich cross-section of compositional voices – from the classical masters to today’s most exciting international and New Zealand composers.

Audiences will be treated to the exceptional talent of founding NZSQ member, violist Gillian Ansell, and the NZSQ’s violinist, Peter Clark. Joining them specially for this tour will be two remarkable guest artists: violinist Manu Berkeljon, who recently returned home to New Zealand after 15 years performing in Sweden, and early-career cellist Lavinnia Rae, who spent 2025 performing with Antipodes Quartet, a fellowship ensemble mentored through the NZSQ’s year-long professional development programme for emerging musicians. Berkeljon and Rae’s participation marks an exciting moment for New Zealand chamber music as established artistry meets the next generation of performers.

The event held at Rangiora Chamber Gallery promises a rich evening of sound and storytelling, opening with the South Island premiere of Universal Veil by emerging New Zealand composer Mika Cornelius – an ethereal work commissioned by SOUNZ and the Tarling Trust in 2025 for the NZSQ.

Schubert’s radiant String Quartet No. 10 follows, before the first half ends with Gareth Farr’s high‑energy favourite Mondo Rondo. After the interval, the Quartet explores the bold sound world of Grammy‑nominated composer Missy Mazzoli in Death Valley Junction, and the evening concludes with Britten’s String Quartet No. 1, a cornerstone of the NZSQ’s 2026 Season and part of their tribute marking 50 years since the composer’s death.

The New Zealand String Quartet presents experiences that share stories, spark curiosity, and demonstrate the power of live music. Whether you’re a long‑time chamber music lover or simply looking for a meaningful night out, book your tickets and share in the joy of this musical journey.

THE DETAILS
Where: Rangiora Chamber Gallery, 141 Percival Street, Rangiora
When: Thursday 7 May, 7.30pm
Tickets: $35 adult, $15 student
Book at the link: www.nzsq.org.nz/event-details/storytellers-origins-in-rangiora

Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/the-chamber-calls/

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