Te Wāhi Toi/The Arts Place exists to connect the creative community of Queenstown and Wānaka with audiences, students, teachers, spaces and each other. We are a not-for-profit organisation powered by Three Lakes Cultural Trust and inspired by local arts and culture.
Chatting with Anne Rodda, Whakatipu Music Festival Director
The programme is designed for every taste and ability, with six major performances spanning Bach to Broadway, classical to jazz. Audiences will experience twelve exceptional young musicians from around Aotearoa performing alongside some of the world’s finest classical artists.
But the festival is more than just a concert series—it’s a chance for the community to engage, learn, and celebrate music together. A key feature this year is Rejoice!, a massed choir project that invites the public to rehearse and perform alongside festival artists and a live orchestra. Under the guidance of the renowned Dr. Karen Grylls (Artistic Director of Choirs Aotearoa NZ), participants will take part in an exhilarating finale featuring Ode to Joy, O Fortuna, and The Hallelujah Chorus.
The Whakatipu Music Festival was born from the quiet of the Covid pandemic—a moment of reflection for the Hill Family Foundation for Arts and Music as they considered how best to support the next generation of musicians. The result was a festival that not only recognises and nurtures emerging talent but also enriches Queenstown’s artistic and cultural landscape.
“We also recognise that the Foundation importantly helps to stimulate the arts and culture in the Whakatipu Basin. The Hill Family Foundation for Arts and Music (which also presents the acclaimed Michael Hill International Violin Competition) is known for bringing world-class musicians to the district, attracting desirable cultural tourism. This Festival delivers that same outstanding experience to visitors, and it also contributes to the efforts and achievements of the many local community organisations, educators, and arts consumers that are driving awareness of the value the arts have in the community.”
After more than two decades of delivering high-quality classical music in Queenstown, the festival is now part of a thriving arts ecosystem.
“I feel like we have won millions! We are making a real impact in New Zealand and particularly in Queenstown. After over two decades of being one of the rare professional-standard entities delivering quality classical music in the region, we are now surrounded by colleagues such as Te Atamira, At the World’s Edge Chamber Music Festival, Three Lakes Cultural Trust, and Turn Up The Music Trust. We’re all working together to demonstrate the importance of the arts for social and economic wellbeing. It’s an exciting time for the arts in the Whakatipu Basin!”
A festival of this scale requires dedication, passion, and expertise. This year’s focus on choral music was inspired by conversations with local musicians and the recognition of Queenstown’s many vibrant vocal ensembles. Thanks to a partnership with Choirs Aotearoa NZ, Dr. Karen Grylls will mentor singers and lead rehearsals, culminating in the powerful community-wide Rejoice! performance.
Festival audiences can also look forward to performances from internationally renowned musicians, including:
These artists will not only perform breathtaking recitals but also mentor the festival’s emerging musicians, fostering a spirit of collaboration and artistic growth.
Having artists of this calibre in Queenstown is a rare privilege.
“The skill and performance level is inspirational and will take your breath away. Whether you are a classical music lover or not, you can’t fail but be transported into another world of music with the skill and passion of these individuals. The hours they’ve put in to gain this result is truly remarkable.”
Whether you're a music enthusiast, an aspiring musician, or just looking for something new to experience, the Whakatipu Music Festival offers something for everyone.
To learn more, get involved in the community choir, or find details on volunteering, visit: www.whakatipumusicfestival.co.nz
Come and be part of the festival magic—try something new, bring your friends and family, and celebrate the power of music in the heart of Queenstown. 🎶
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Tickets are on sale now at Eventfinda, starting at $15 for students and $49/$59 for adults. https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/tours-festivals/2025/whakatipu-music-festival
Image credit: Sheena Haywood
