Hailed for her “breath-taking range of colour, tone and inflection,” by The Times, South Korean-born New Zealand pianist Somi Kim is one of New Zealand’s most sought-after pianists.

A performance by Somi in Tauranga in Octoer will provide an opportunity to join music director Peter Walls and Opus Orchestra for an unforgettable concert as Somi’s extraordinary talent comes together with the timeless compositions of Mozart and a playful twist of Prokofiev.

This will be a performance built from the desire to showcase talent from New Zealand says an orchestra spokesperson.

"Opus Orchestra will collaborate with the fabulous Somi Kim, a pianist who represents a new generation of classical music in New Zealand.

"This concert will also feature New Zealand composer Martin Lodge. Pairing the contemporary music of Martin with a classical master like Mozart, weaves together a programme that marries tradition and innovation."

Opus Orchestra. Photo: Supplied.

Somi Kim: Mozart and More will enrich the local arts scene, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience Somi Kim’s brilliance and foster a deeper appreciation for classical music and the performing arts in the Tauranga and Western Bay community.

On Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Baycourt Community and Arts Centre, attendees will enjoy high-quality orchestral music and see what sets Opus Orchestra apart.

A third of the orchestra’s members hail from the region and are accomplished performers and music educators in Tauranga, providing opportunities for young creatives.

Opus Orchestra General Manager, Allison Harker says Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty rarely have the privilege to witness an artist like Somi, accompanied by a full professional orchestra.

“This concert has the potential to be an inspiration for budding talents within our own community. Witnessing an accomplished artist like Somi perform alongside an orchestra can ignite a spark in aspiring musicians, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with renewed determination and passion,” says Allison.

“The transformative impact of experiencing a master of one’s craft can be a driving force to propel one’s artistic journey forward.”

The local Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund (TWBCEF) has supported this event by recently approving a grant of $10,000 to support the operational costs. TWBCEF is a partnership between Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, TECT, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council designed to simplify applying for community event funding.

Lori Luke, CEO of Acorn Foundation, says the fund sees significant value in the efforts of Opus Orchestra to provide concerts such as this for the community to attend.

“This event promises to be an unforgettable night for music enthusiasts throughout the region, and it is fantastic to support a not-for-profit orchestra to ensure the community has the opportunity to experience amazing talent,” says Lori.

The concert's goal is to leave attendees invigorated by the music and give the community the opportunity to experience Somi’s amazing talent. This concert will be remembered as it spreads joy and inspires its audience.

Somi Kim: Mozart and More Programme

- Overture to Don Giovanni W. A. Mozart

- Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor K. 466 W. A. Mozart

- Cassation. Martin Lodge

- Classical Symphony No. 1, Op. 25 Prokofiev

For more information on Somi Kim: Mozart and More and to purchase tickets, head to Opus Orchestra’s website.