At the World’s Edge Festival  returns this October, marking its fifth anniversary with a programme that explores the complex relationship between music and nature.

This year’s line-up brings some of Aotearoa’s most acclaimed chamber musicians to Central Otago and the Southern Lakes, including pianist Michael Houstoun, cellist James Bush, and Composer in Residence John Psathas. They are joined by a cast of renowned international artists that features UK violinist Anthony Marwood, US violist Yura Lee and Australian harpsichordist, Erin Helyard.

The festival opens with a weekend in Wānaka and the world premiere of a newly commissioned string quintet by John Psathas. Performed at Rippon Hall, the ambitious two-cello work is one of two new pieces commissioned for AWE 2025. Psathas will also mentor this year’s Emerging Composer, Lauren Doherty, as she prepares her own commission that will debut during the festival.

From Wānaka to Cromwell and Queenstown,  the 2025 festival draws on the natural world as a source of creative inspiration. Explored through seven carefully curated performances and a series of free events, AWE features celebrated chamber works, lesser-known pieces, and bold new compositions that highlight the many ways composers engage with nature.

This theme also guides this year’s AWE+ series of free public performances, workshops and talks that extend the conversation beyond music. Acclaimed architect Fred van Brandenburg will share insights into biomimicry and design, while Olympic freeskier Jossi Wells explores the parallels between performance, creativity, and the alpine environment.

At the World’s Edge Festival runs from 4–12 October 2025, with performances in Queenstown, Wānaka, Cromwell and Bannockburn. The AWE+ series offers free events across all festival venues, culminating with a tour of schools throughout the district between 13-17 October.

For more information and tickets, visit www.worldsedgefestival.com