Critical Reviews
“Attending two orchestral concerts (NZSO and Opus) in a week has made for interesting talking points. The first is unique quality and performance power of Opus as an ensemble... This was an evening to savour and the full house did just that.”
— Sam Edwards (Waikato Times, 2018)
“It is a sign of the prestige of Opus and its conductor that they can attract artists of high calibre as soloists, such as the tenor Simon O’Neill and the young Russian cellist, Lev Sivkov. Peter Walls’s embracing style of direction kept up the momentum well, while successfully melding the complexity of the music.”
— Hanno Fairburn (Rotorua Daily Post, 2019)
“As Opus Orchestra continues to move from strength to strength, and nurtures building the careers of some of New Zealand’s future performers, it is also reassuring and encouraging to note the number of young listeners in attendance at their concerts. The future of music is indeed bright and promising in New Zealand thanks in no small part to Opus Orchestra and their efforts to showcase some of our greatest talent.”
— Chalium Poppy (Bay of Plenty Times, 2011)
Artist Testimonials
“My experience with Opus was such a great one. One that remains very special, helps me believe that we can keep music, dance, theatre,”live” performance in the front of entertainment, and why your loyal public and commercial businesses should support Opus Orchestra and live entertainment.”
— Mark Hadlow, Actor, presenter for Opus Orchestra’s Family Friendly concerts 2018
“It was a wonderful experience to work with an orchestra that was so ready to respond to the slightest nuance of their conductor with precision and perception, and I found their exuberant energy inspiring. Opus Orchestra clearly punches above its weight, bringing the joys of music-making to a wide audience in the North Island.”
— Bianca Andrew, mezzo soprano, soloist in Berlioz ‘Nuits d’ete with Opus
“I have great admiration for Opus Orchestra. The players are dedicated, sensitive and focussed bringing great energy and excellence to their performances. I am also impressed by their vision to bring concerts to several centres in the North Island of New Zealand, thus reaching out to as many people as possible. It was a huge pleasure to work with Opus.”
— Gemma New, Conductor, Principal Guest conductor at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra
“Over three days in July the opus Orchestra played music of Haydn and spread a great deal of joy through the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. What better thing to do for the citizenry? The orchestra played very well, made me look good, and appeared to do so with some pleasure. There can be no argument against all this happiness.”
— Michael Houstoun, Iconic New Zealand pianist