Eclectic line-up for Vineyard Concert

18 February 2005

Eclectic line-up for Vineyard Concert

Now in its 20th year, the Auckland Philharmonia’s annual Summer Matinée (which has been sponsored by Huka Lodge for the past ten years) is regarded as “Auckland’s most sophisticated outdoor concert”.

The concert is traditionally held in the grounds of Government House, but this year, due to refurbishments, a new location had to be found. Enter George Fistonich, who offered the fabulous new grounds of Villa Maria Estate winery as the venue. Villa Maria has been a sponsor of the Auckland Philharmonia for more than 20 years, and this is the first public event to be held at their new vineyard park. Open exclusively to patrons of the Summer Matinée, the sprawling vineyard, which is surrounded by 20 hectares of picturesque vines, mature trees and terraces, is nestled within the natural amphitheatre of an extinct volcanic crater and provides a stunning environment for a picnic, fine wine and excellent music.

An eclectic line-up of music and artists have been organised for this special “vineyard concert”. Under charismatic conductor Marc Taddei and MCs Raymond and Sophia Hawthorne, an afternoon of fine entertainment is promised with the Auckland Philharmonia and guest artists including Kiwi band Goldenhorse, operatic duo Shaun Dixon and Tania Brand, trumpeter Viktor Kisnichenko, violinist Malavika Gopal, 2005 PricewaterhouseCoopers Dame Malvina Major Emerging Artists soprano Paloma Bruce and mezzo soprano Rebecca Crabtree (appearing courtesy of the NBR NZ Opera), Chinese dancers, and much more.

Only 15 minutes from Auckland City, Villa Maria Estate provides ample parking, or you can catch the specially chartered bus from Dominion Road. The Huka Lodge Summer Matinée is a fundraising event for the Auckland Philharmonia, with the orchestra musicians, conductor and soloists donating their services. Tickets (adults: $69; children under twelve: $25) include the concert plus a generously-filled (regular or vegetarian) picnic hamper with Villa Maria wine or fruit juice. Phone 0800 744 542 or go to www.aucklandphil.co.nz to book for this elegant musical event.

Auckland Philharmonia Huka Lodge Summer Matinée: Sunday 13 March – 12noon to 3.30pm, Grounds of Villa Maria Estate vineyard, Montgomerie Road, Manukau

The Auckland Philharmonia receives major funding from Creative New Zealand and a major grant from Auckland City. The Summer Matinée is sponsored by Huka Lodge. Special thanks to Villa Maria Estate.

ENDS

© Scoop Media