We are Christchurch's friendly orchestra - an ensemble with a great repertoire and a supportive approach. Our members include enthusiastic musicians ranging from young to adult and amateur to professional. We rehearse weekly and perform several concerts throughout the year.
The orchestra was formed in 1999 under the directorship of John Emeleus for musicians of all ages who enjoy making music together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
The orchestra strives to achieve lively and sensitive interpretations in a wide variety of music, from Beethoven to Borodin, Mozart to Mendelssohn, as well as contemporary theatre and movie music.
For our concerts we are often joined by invited local groups (choral and instrumental), and we like to feature young soloists and emerging composers where we can.
OUR CONDUCTOR: BETH COHEN
Beth graduated in music from Brandeis University and gained a master’s degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Wisconsin (USA). She worked for over 30 years throughout the New York metropolitan area where she gained a reputation as an enthusiastic, energetic, and dedicated educator and conductor. Since emigrating to New Zealand Beth has conducted the Christchurch School of Music Camerata Strings and ISO Orchestras, the Canterbury Regional Schools Orchestra and the Auckland Victorious March Concert Band. She currently teaches at Hagley College and is directing the orchestra at Linwood College.
