NEW ZEALAND’S CHAMBER MUSIC SCENE | At the World’s Edge and Beyond
What’s with chamber music in New Zealand?
New Zealand is fast becoming a hub for world-class chamber music. From the dramatic peaks of Queenstown to the vineyards of Martinborough and the sun-soaked shores of Nelson, chamber music festivals are flourishing, and the At the World’s Edge Festival is at the forefront of this cultural rise. Setting the stage for classical music in New Zealand and across the globe, AWE brings some of the world’s best international and national musicians together in the heart of the Southern Alps for a series of world-class performances, with ticketed and free events for the whole community.
Where can you experience live chamber music in New Zealand?
New Zealand’s chamber music scene is dynamic and internationally recognised. The country’s distinctive geography and tightknit artistic community create the perfect setting for unforgettable chamber music experiences. Key festivals include:
At the World’s Edge Festival | AWE - Queenstown, Wānaka, Central Otago
Held each spring in Queenstown, Wānaka and Central Otago, AWE has quickly established itself as one of New Zealand’s leading chamber music festivals and a key player on the global scene. With a focus on deep artistic collaboration, intimate concert experiences, and breathtaking alpine surroundings, AWE curates world-class chamber music performances with a bold, modern edge. The 2025 programme continues to push boundaries while bringing together renowned international artists and exciting local musicians.
Beyond AWE, a growing number of regional festivals are contributing to New Zealand’s chamber music renaissance.
Whakatipu Music Festival – Queenstown
Also based in Queenstown, the Whakatipu Music Festival has made a name for itself as a dynamic and artistically ambitious event. Established in 2021 as an offshoot to the Michael Hill Violin Competition, it has championed a blend of emerging New Zealand talent and established international artists. Its focus on artistic development and community engagement complements AWE’s commitment to nurturing emerging classical musicians and composers. Together, the two festivals are helping establish Queenstown as a true destination for live chamber music.
Adam Chamber Music Festival – Nelson
Held biennially in the historic Nelson School of Music, the Adam Festival is a cornerstone of the country’s classical music festival calendar. It showcases exceptional performances with a particular flair for string quartets and composer showcases. Its long-standing reputation makes it a magnet for top-tier ensembles from around the globe.
Martinborough Music Festival – Wairarapa
The Martinborough Music Festival brings world-class chamber music to one of New Zealand’s most understated cultural settings. Known for its intimacy and focus on artistic excellence, the festival attracts leading musicians from across the country and abroad. AWE’s co-founder and Artistic Director Benjamin Baker has been a featured artist, while one of Martinborough’s Artistic Directors, Wilma Smith, took to the AWE stage in 2022. The festival’s intimate venues make for wonderful chamber music concerts, where audience and artist share a rare closeness.
Cambridge Chamber Music Festival – Waikato
Launching in September 2025, the Cambridge Chamber Music Festival is already generating buzz. With concerts taking place in the beautiful Cambridge Town Hall, the festival promises a fresh and exciting addition to the chamber music calendar. It also has deep ties to the AWE community: Amanda Verner and Ken Ichinose (AWE Festival Artists 2022) are among its early artistic collaborators. Meanwhile, Bryony Gibson-Cornish (AWE Festival Artist 2024) has a special connection too: her brother, Todd Gibson-Cornish, a prominent bassoonist, is one of the driving forces behind the festival’s creation. This is one to watch.
What’s next for chamber music in Aotearoa?
As regional festivals grow, so too does the appetite for deeper, more meaningful musical encounters. This is a thrilling moment for chamber music in New Zealand, and AWE is proud to be shaping its future, artistically and internationally.
Alongside its flagship spring festival in Queenstown, Wānaka and Central Otago, AWE is also expanding New Zealand’s musical footprint globally. Through its international programmes, AWE champions New Zealand artists on the world stage, presenting chamber music performances and residencies in the UK and USA. It’s not just about bringing the world to New Zealand; it’s about taking New Zealand to the world.
With roots in the Southern Alps and a reach that spans the globe, AWE is standing firmly at the edge of what’s next in chamber music. Whether you’re planning your itinerary of Queenstown events, wondering what’s on in Wānaka, or seeking world-class live music in New Zealand, At the World’s Edge Festival is where you want to be in 2025.