The Burnside High School Orchestra, consists of over 80 auditioned members of all year levels.

 2019 has been a fantastic year, the ensemble working on an exciting programme, including the Peterloo overture and the orchestra’s “party piece” Danzon No. 2.

The orchestra’s first performance of 2019 was at the end of the annual Living Springs instrumental camp in March. This camp combined hard work at rehearsals, with plenty of fun, especially the new trivia night concocted by the music staff this year.

A highlight of 2019 was the collaboration with the members of SMP piano, at Orchestral Showcase performing Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals. Many thanks to the soloists who worked hard to prepare for this challenging programme.

September was an exciting time for the orchestra, who had the opportunity to perform in the rich acoustic of the Christchurch Town Hall, at the Christchurch Secondary Schools Orchestra Festival 2019.

I have been a member of the Burnside High School Orchestra for five years, and it has been an absolute privilege to be the 2019 concertmaster of a full-sized symphony orchestra of such high standard. I wish the orchestra all the best in years to come and will enjoy attending future concerts. Finally, endless thanks to Dr. Renaud for her leadership of the orchestra, her hard work, and her expert guidance this year.