Brent Stewart, one of New Zealand’s most versatile conductors, returns to direct a diverse programme which begins with two works reflecting the forces of nature. Nathaniel Otley, an emerging Dunedin composer, won the prestigious 2024 SOUNZ Contemporary Award. His new composition, a co-commission with London’s Sinfonia Smith Square, explores the changes South Dunedin has experienced, particularly environmental ones. Commissioned by the DSO in early 2024, there was no knowing that in October 2024 South Dunedin would indeed experience a ‘rising tide’.

Piazzolla’s “Four Seasons” (arranged by Ukrainian composer Leonid Desyatnikov) is a tango-infused answer to Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”, even quoting from Vivaldi’s work. Soloist for this work, Amalia Hall, is one of NZ’s foremost violinists whose vivacious playing possesses “blazing insight and dazzling virtuosity” (The Strad). Mozart’s musical genius shines through in his Symphony No. 39 which showcases his exquisite melodies and lively energy.