Launched in 2021, the two-yearly competition aims to provide young players aged 14 to 22 the chance to showcase their performing skills on instruments ranging from violin to trumpet, clarinet to piano, cello to trombone.
For Bruce Hodgson, a member of the competition’s main sponsor, the Hodgson Towers Trust, the chance to see and hear the young musicians perform is a special experience.
‘‘It is a wonderful event, that is a great platform for young musicians to show their skills.’’
The trust worked closely with the Dunedin Concerto Competition to get the event off the ground, and was dedicated to the idea that young people should have the chance to aspire to playing a concerto on a big stage with a symphony orchestra.
Along with substantial seed funding, the trust’s contribution was recently boosted by a bequest from Mr Hodgson’s uncle and late aunt, Bill and Clare Hodgson.
The event is also supported by the Otago Community Trust, the DCC Creative Communities Fund, the DCC Arts Fund and the University of Otago School for the Performing Arts, as well as by individual sponsors and donors.
The competitors will take part in the Dunedin Concerto Competition’s preliminary rounds, which run from this Friday to Sunday at Marama Hall, Otago University.
Adjudicators Richard Mapp (piano), Debbie Rawson (clarinet) and Donald Maurice (violin/viola) will select three finalists to perform with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra and Dunedin Youth Orchestra on May 27, at Dunedin Town Hall.
The public is encouraged to attend the preliminary sessions this weekend. The doors open at Marama Hall at 4.30pm on Friday. Tickets for each session as available at the door.
