Whilst the spotlight of the Michael Hill is understandably on the competitors, we present a comprehensive programme designed to raise the awareness of fine music and the standard of musical performance in Aotearoa.
Inspiring the next generation of talent is a huge part of our kaupapa and opportunities are generously offered for our local violinists to learn directly from the experts, and engage with their international peer group.
Side-by-Side String Ensemble:
Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and New Zealand Symphony Orchestra members, 2026 Competitors and members of the community
Saturday 23 May, 5.00-6.00pm
Ron Ball Studio, Christchurch Town Hall
Free registration – Click here
James Ehnes NZSO Foundation Violin Masterclass
Monday 26 May, 4.00-6.00pm
Ron Ball Studio, Christchurch Town Hall
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-christchurch-string-sessions-23-27may
Edward Dusinberre (2026 Judge) & Harumi Rhodes (Takács Quartet) – Chamber Music Class
Monday 25 May, 7.00-9.00pm
Ron Ball Studio, Christchurch Town Hall
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-christchurch-string-sessions-23-27may
Win or not, the value of partaking in competitions is the hard graft the musicians put into their preparation to be at their absolute peak. The intensity they encounter through the rounds is unparalleled in any other environment.
The Michael Hill genuinely wants every violinist to leave New Zealand stronger and more insightful than when they arrived. To this end, the Competition judges provide personal feedback and masterclasses to the quarter-finalists not advanced to the Round III semi-finals.
Masterclasses are provided by Competition judges to competitors not advancing to the Final Round.
A customised professional development programme to meet the needs and goals of the winner is undertaken during the Winner’s Tour.
Past winners have developed skills and confidence in public speaking, branding, stage presence, media training, maintaining and managing influential stakeholders, stress management, etc.
Every Michael Hill winner has said that their Winner’s Tour was the most significant part of their prize package because it provided an opportunity unlike any other to develop and test their artistry in a thrilling pressure-cooker experience – a multi-city performance tour of New Zealand with recitals, a concerto and a recording.
Josef Špaček – Violin Masterclass (2026 Judge)
Symphonia Music
Thursday 4 June, 10:00am-12:00pm
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-auckland-string-sessions
Natsuko Yoshimoto – Violin Masterclass (2026 Judge)
Symphonia Music
Thursday 4 June,12:30-2:30pm
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-auckland-string-sessions
Edward Dusinberre (2026 Judge) & Harumi Rhodes (Takács Quartet) – Chamber Music Class
Symphonia Music
Friday 5 June, 9:30-11:30am
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-auckland-string-sessions
Prof. Vera Tsu Weiling – Violin Pedagogy Class (2026 Judge)
Friday 5 June, 11.45am-1.15pm
Symphonia Music
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-auckland-string-sessions
Prof. Vera Tsu Weiling – Violin Masterclass (2026 Judge)
Friday 5 June, 1:30-3:30pm
Symphonia Music
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-auckland-string-session
Amalia Hall & Matthias Balzat (NZTrio) workshop for young violinists
Saturday 6 June, 9.30-10.30am
Symphonia Music
Free registration: https://events.humanitix.com/mhivc-auckland-string-sessions
Auckland String Sessions Gala Showcase (massed string ensemble)
Saturday 6 June, 4.00pm
Auckland Town Hall Concert Chamber