Something else which makes our Competition different from others is that we don’t just create an opportunity for young international violinists to compete on the world stage, but we offer a number career development opportunities, right here in Aotearoa. In order for us best foster the next generation of violin talent, we have developed a thriving programme of development, education and community outreach activities, including masterclasses, workshops and our popular Classroom Conversations series. Masterclasses are intimate with limited…

Our Ad Libitum section continued on Sat 1 June, for the remaining eight Quarter-finalists. Ad Libitum means “according to pleasure” and, as such, the competitor chooses a work which resonates with them. Each is required to introduce their chosen piece and its (or their) significance to the judging panel and audience. It’s not just a test of skill and artistry, but of presentation skills and creativity. Australian Victoria Wong (at left) chose Ernst’s Der Erlkönig, expressing its importance…

Every Competition, the Quarter-finalists are all required to perform a commissioned piece by a New Zealand composer as part of Round 2. This year, we have the privilege of hearing - 16 times! - a new work by Wellington-born, Edinburgh-based Composer Lyell Cresswell. Lyell is a prolific composer who has written work for orchestra, opera, choral music and beyond. He has an APRA Silver Scroll for his contribution to New Zealand music and a New Zealand Arts Laureate…

Live and online audience members are encouraged to vote for their favourite competitor, online or NZ mobile (standard charges apply), in the Michael Hill International Violin Competition Audience Prize. Please find the online voting button on our Home Page or text the unique code of your favourite competitor to 3323 (NZ only. Standard call charges apply). Competitor codes are below. Contestant Text code Rimma Benyumova (Russia) RIM Emmalena Huning (Australia) EMMA Do Gyung (Anna) Im (South Korea) ANNA Harry…