After another big day of rehearsals and sound checks, before everything kicked off yesterday evening!

An afternoon of soundchecks for Tararua and Dale Gold Sandbox Quartet gave the staff an exciting little sneak of what was to come. 

One of our incredible sponsors, Craigs Investment Partners, kindly hosted an opening reception for artists, staff, sponsors and supporters. Gerald Fitzgerald, chair of the Michael Hill International Violin Competition Trust, thanked sponsors and supporters for adapting to the shift in directions and for recognising how music is both a salve and an inspiration. And special thanks to Nockie’s Palette Wine for supplying their beautiful wines for the evening. 

Tararua set the stage for the weekend with their mesmerising music and storytelling. The art music quartet combines the delicate sounds of taonga pūoro with western instruments, cello and double bass. An exquisite performance featuring songs from Tararua’s recent album Bird Like Men. 

Following a short break with inspirational words and thanks from Sir Michael Hill and Festival Director, Anne Rodda, Dale Gold Sandbox swung into action. Down to a trio for the evening, didn’t stop the group for putting on a fantastic jazz performance. 

Check out the shots from the evening below.