Classical Expressions
Whirinaki Whare Taonga’s Classical Expressions series brings you the treasure of music in six concerts spread throughout the year. Some works are beloved, familiar treasures which have stood the test of time; others are intriguing new works which may well become treasures to future generations. All of them will astound you.
Join us to enjoy the treasure of music in this astounding series of concerts at Whirinaki Whare Taonga.
Purchase your season subscription now to receive great discounts and enjoy the treasure of music in SIX concerts at Whirinaki Whare Taonga.
Season Subscription tickets (one ticket per show) $165 ($27.50 per ticket).
Classical Expressions is brought to you by Whirinaki Whare Taonga.
Click here to access the Classical Expressions 2026 Programme.
Proudly supported by Summerset at The Course.
Classical Expressions: Aotango Quintet
30 Apr 2026 | 7.30pm
Tickets from $35.00
World-class musicians performing in Piazzolla’s original quintet formation, blending classical and contemporary instruments to create a dynamic and immersive experience. Designed to be both engaging and accessible, the performance will captivate audiences of all ages and musical backgrounds.
Classical Expressions: Michael Houstoun
21 May 2026 | 7.30pm
Tickets from $35.00
A programme of masterpieces including works by J.S. Bach (French Overture in B minor, a classic dance suite), Beethoven (Sonata in E, Op.109), Ravel (Gaspard de la nuit) and the Bach-Busoni ‘Chaconne’. Performed by iconic Kiwi pianist, Michael Houstoun.
Classical Expressions: Jian Liu
18 Jun 2026 | 7.30pm
Tickets from $35.00
This programme explores how composers from different times and cultures paint their worlds in sound.
As an internationally celebrated concert pianist, Dr. Jian Liu has performed throughout Europe, Asia, and North America.
Classical Expressions: The Elouan Quartet with Bridget Douglas
16 Jul 2026 | 7.30pm
Tickets from $35.00
“Mata-Au” This programme moves between the rich Romantic lyricism of Amy Beach and Arther Foote, the contemporary fluidity of Salina Fisher’s Mata-Au (inspired by the Clutha River), and the rhythmic energy of Alberto Ginastera’s folk-infused Impresiones de la Puna.
Classical Expressions: Dolfin-Lin Duo
3 Sep 2026 | 7.30pm
Tickets from $35.00
Hungarian cellist Balázs Dolfin and Chinese-New Zealand pianist Tony Chen Lin share a deep musical rapport rooted in diverse cultural traditions.
Classical Expressions: Aroha String Quartet
8 Oct 2026 | 7.30pm
Tickets from $35.00
Around the World in 90 Minutes; buckle up and travel around the globe with the Aroha String Quartet, with stopovers to sample the music of seven different countries on five continents - Europe, Asia, South America, North America and Zealandia.