The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce that from 2014 the organisation’s new Principal Sponsor will be leading commercial project delivery and construction company, Leighs Construction. Having been associated with the orchestra for two years, as a series sponsor, Leighs Construction’s move to Principal Sponsor is further testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting arts and the Canterbury community. “It would be hard to imagine a 21st century city existing without a vibrant and dynamic arts scene” commented Anthony Leighs, Managing Director, Leighs Construction. “The CSO is at the heart of this city, from its diverse and engaging concert programmes to its belief in what music can and does bring to our communities. Leighs Construction is delighted to contribute to the continuing success of the orchestra and to give something meaningful back to our city’. In 2014, AMI Insurance, who has sponsored the CSO for nearly 20 years will continue their support through the orchestra’s touring programme CSO on the Road which will consist of concert performances in Timaru and Ashburton. “Being able to enjoy live orchestral music is something we hope everyone has the opportunity to experience and it has been a long shared ambition of both AMI and the CSO to take the orchestra to other areas of the South Island” explained Matthew Cody, General Manager, AMI. During the next twelve months the CSO will be self-presenting 21 concerts and providing orchestral support for the other arts organisations such as The National Concerto Competition, The Royal New Zealand Ballet, NZ Opera, the Christchurch City Choir and Classical Sparks. The highly acclaimed Education and Outreach programme actively involves 20,000 people of all ages. This programme encompasses the CSO in Residence school project, interactive performances at early childhood, primary and high schools, master classes, workshops, open rehearsals, composition classes, recitals in retirement homes and hospitals, mentoring and instrumental lessons. “All of this would not be possible without the generous support we receive from our funders and sponsors” said Therese Arseneau, Executive Chair of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. “We are thrilled that as we head into 2014 Leighs Construction will be our Principal Sponsor and AMI our Touring Sponsor. Their belief in what we do inspires us to continue in our endeavours”. The orchestra’s 2014 concert season will be launched on Tuesday, 22nd October.