Capital plays host to global viola festival
After a string of successful festivals in the northern hemisphere, it’s Wellington’s turn to host some of the world’s best viola players.
Preparations for the 44th International Viola Congress have been under way for the past 12 months, after a last-minute change in the host country.
‘‘It was supposed to be hosted by Great Britain but back in September they pulled out, saying they couldn’t do it,’’ host chair Donald Maurice said.
Because Maurice had helped Wellington host the festival in 2001, he received a call from the event’s organisers requesting he take the reins once again.
‘‘That was the first time it had ever been held outside of Europe and North America and since then it’s only been in the southern hemisphere a couple more times.’’
More than 60 events are planned over the five-day festival.
‘‘Everything is going to be pretty full as more than 130 people have registered. Some of the rooms only hold 60-70 people.’’
Musicians from 20 countries are set to arrive next week with many collaborating within days of meeting one another.
‘‘I find it quite exciting how music can cross international barriers, bring people together in a room and suddenly this amazing performance comes out at the end,’’ Maurice said.
A viola player himself, Maurice won’t perform during the festival but said he was looking forward to hearing what others had planned. ‘‘It’s a different sound to the violin, it’s deeper and to me it relates a lot to the human voice which I like.’’
Wellington Mayor Justin Lester said being asked to host the international festival was a coup for the city.
‘‘We can’t wait to welcome viola players from around the world to Wellington ... it’s another chance for the world’s coolest little capital to shine.’’
As part of the event programme, a 100-strong flash mob is also being planned at Te Papa to involve the public with the event.
‘‘For the people wandering through, they’ll have no idea what’s going on ... It will look spontaneous but plenty will be going on behind the scenes.’’
The 44th International Viola Congress will be held in Wellington from September 1-5, more information from ivcwgtn2017.wixsite.com.