Events and Tickets » Classical Expressions 2026
CLASSICAL EXPRESSIONS 2026
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.
Proudly supported by Summerset at The Course.
Click here to access the Classical Expressions 2026 Programme.
Aotango Quintet
Classical Expressions 2026
Thursday 30 April | 7.30pm
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.
Michael Houstoun
Classical Expressions 2026
Thursday 21 May | 7.30pm
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.
Jian Liu
Classical Expressions 2026
Thursday 18 June | 7.30pm
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. His artistry has taken him to some of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and Steinway Hall in New York, and more. Liu has also featured as a soloist with orchestras worldwide.
The Elouan Quartet with Bridget Douglas
Classical Expressions 2026
Thursday 16 July | 7.30pm
“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.
Audiences will be immersed in a journey through soundscapes that evoke flowing rivers, twilight atmospheres, and dynamic folk rhythms. With a strong connection to water and place, this programme resonates deeply in Aotearoa, where waterways are both culturally and environmentally significant.
Dolfin-Lin Duo
Classical Expressions 2026
Thursday 3 September | 7.30pm
Hungarian cellist Balázs Dolfin and Chinese-New Zealand pianist Tony Chen Lin share a deep musical rapport rooted in diverse cultural traditions.
A chance meeting in Italy in 2021 sparked a duo between Hungarian cellist Balázs Dolfin and Chinese-New Zealand pianist Tony Chen Lin. Trained in Hungary and Germany, they bring dynamic energy and deep rapport, drawing on global influences while still calling Budapest their enduring musical home.
Aroha String Quartet
Classical Expressions 2026
Thursday 8 October | 7.30pm
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.
Acclaimed as demonstrating "accomplished brilliance, soulfulness and sublime intensity in perfect balance and tonal unity" (The Dominion Post), the Aroha String Quartet is firmly established as one of New Zealands finest chamber music ensembles.