Classical on Cuba 2023

Overview

Classical on Cuba is returning to the heart of Wellington, and with more than 80 shows on the lineup, classical music fans aren't going to want to miss it. On Saturday, September 2 and Sunday, September 3, Cuba Street will transform into an immersive classic music experience, with fans and first-time listeners getting the chance to wander around venues like Rogue, Vagabond, City Gallery and Thistle Hall while being serenaded by sweet classical tunes.

If you're a Bridgerton fan, you'll want to head along to The Whistedowns, a string quartet who excel in performing pieces straight from the hit show while wearing their best regency-era get-ups.

Oro Atua, made up of Grammy award winner Jerome Kavanagh, and star composer Michael Norris, will be treating their audience to a sensory music experience, by using taonga pūoro (traditional Māori musical instruments). These instruments hold a significant place in Māori ancestry, with ancestors using tools like these to heal others and promote a healthy mind, body and spirit. Each of these instruments have been created from Aotearoa's natural materials, whether it be a tree or a rock. Oro Atua's performance can be seen not just as a concert, but an educational healing experience.

A much-loved element of the show, the Classical Crawl, is also back this year, which allows music lovers to attend 30-minute samples of performances over Saturday and Sunday. For those on a budget, this means you can experience six concerts per day, for just $12.

If you're after something longer, there will be five feature length performances at this year's Classical on Cuba. This includes the legendary NZTrio, made up of Somi Kim on the piano, Ashley Brown on the cello and Amalia Hall on the violin, as well as the incredible 55-strong Other Futures Big Band and Gallery Orchestra.

Classical on Cuba strives to make classical music accessible and affordable, with tickets to the multi-day, multi-venue event starting at just $10.