University hosts fundraiser for chamber orchestra

Media release
22 March 2011

University of Auckland hosts inaugural fundraiser for chamber orchestra

A private performance by renowned pianist John Chen or opera singer Morag McDowell; four picture books signed by beloved Hairy Maclary author Lynley Dodd; and a chance to lunch with The University of Auckland’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart McCutcheon—just a few of the auction items for sale at the forthcoming “Luxury Upstairs/Downstairs” auction and fundraiser for The University of Auckland Strings.

The University’s chamber orchestra provides advanced training opportunities for the School of Music’s leading young string players. Since its inception in 2005, the group has worked with guest musicians Wolfram Christ and Martin Rummel, as well as with their distinguished director, Senior Lecturer Elizabeth Holowell OAM. This year, Austrian violist Firmian Lermer of the Hyperion Ensemble will be an esteemed guest. Over the past five years, the group has given some memorable concert performances, and a compact disc recording will be released in mid-2011.

Hosted jointly by the University and The University of Auckland Society, the inaugural fundraising event is being held to support the Strings and to help enable the School of Music to bring outstanding international guests to work with the group. Such opportunities allow some the country’s best young string players to experience the finest international standards. It also reflects the broader aims of the Society to network, and to foster and nurture talent.

“We are delighted to give members of the public the chance to support our talented young musicians during an evening of fine music and an exciting live and silent auction,” says Professor Robert Constable, Head of the School of Music. “The benefits that come from exposure to leading international musicians is immeasurable, and it can be a powerful influence on our aspiring musicians,” he says.

Morag McDowell and past members of The University of Auckland Strings will perform during the evening, and items will be sold by renowned auctioneer Christopher Devereaux. Vice-Chancellor Professor McCutcheon will speak briefly on the achievements and challenges for the future of The University of Auckland.

The Luxury Upstairs/Downstairs auction and fundraiser will be held in the Main Foyer of the Owen G Glenn Building (12 Grafton Road) from 6-9pm on Tuesday 5 April. The ticket price ($30 for Society Members / $35 for Non Members) covers entry, the first 2 glasses of wine and canapés. A cash bar will be open for the evening. Dress: cocktail.

For bookings and a full list of auction items on offer visit: www.society.auckland.ac.nz

ENDS

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