Orchestra Wellington general manager Adán Tijerina said he was pleased overall with the results of the New Zealand Professional Orchestral Sector Review, released yesterday [Thurs 28] by the Ministry of Culture and Heritage.

“The report acknowledges the great lengths orchestras have gone to over many years to establish themselves within their communities and reach their current high artistic standards,” Tijerina said.

Mr Tijerina was “heartened” to see the report’s recommendation that the current structure be left largely unchanged.

“New Zealand should be proud of its orchestral sector, and we are delighted to be seen as an integral part of the wider landscape.

“Orchestra Wellington has a unique situation, being based in the same city as the NZSO and the NZ School of Music. We will continue to work with both, building proficiency in young players and creating attractive career pathways for them. We will also continue to collaborate with these and other arts organisations to offer the discerning Wellington public the variety and wealth of creative engagement that it expects and deserves.

“In short, the report further validates much of the work we already do as a matter of course to flourish within the Capital. “We remain positive that public funding authorities realise the contribution Orchestra Wellington makes to the wider cultural fabric of the city, region and country.”

Orchestra Wellington has habitually included touring as part of its annual programme.

“We will endeavour to continue doing so, provided alternative funding sources remain available to make it financially viable.”

Mr Tijerina said he agreed wholeheartedly with the recommendation that the NZSO remain a Crown entity, direct-line funded from the Ministry.

“It is the cornerstone of the Sector, and we maintain our commitment to reasonably support their endeavours.”

He acknowledged that the APO’s situation was different to other professional orchestras in the country. The report recommended that their status change to become a Metropolitan orchestra.

“They are a fine orchestra in a flourishing metropolitan area and they deserve to be recognised for the great breadth of work that they do in their communities.”

“We look forward to getting around a table with the other orchestras for us all to explore effective ways forward.” /ENDS