Opus Orchestra was founded in 1991 and has since experienced a dramatic rise in musical standards and public support. Its vision is to provide access to musical performance for audiences in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty region and the wider Central North Island through a varied programme of music each year. After a brief period of administration under the umbrella of the Orchestras Central Trust (OCT), Opus is now run by an independent charitable trust, the Opus Orchestra Trust.

Opus enhances the cultural identity of the region by providing performance opportunities for experienced local musicians and younger players, like the growing number of talented graduates from the Music Department of the University of Waikato. Opus has attracted nationally and internationally recognised musicians as soloists, including Simon O’Neill, Michael Houstoun, Diedre Irons, Bianca Andrew, Madison Nonoa, and Alexa Still. Before accepting his invitation, Houstoun attended an Opus concert and was so impressed he not only agreed to perform with the orchestra but also to conduct the whole concert.

Opus Orchestra has presented several premiere performances of New Zealand works by rising and established composers. In September 2019 it performed a specially commissioned work by acclaimed New Zealand composer Gareth Farr.

Opus plays a vital role in the cultural life of the region through collaborations with many high-profile musical entities such as Scholars Baroque Aotearoa, Hamilton Civic Choir, Rotorua District Choir, and in the future, the Tauranga Arts Festival.

Opus Orchestra promises to continue its long-standing tradition of artistic excellence and to provide the Waikato and Bay of Plenty public with great music and great artists. 2024 will feature a core programme of mainstage concerts, in addition to our community engagement and educational programming.