A word from our Artistic Adviser, Dene Olding
The music world is changing in ever more dramatic fashion and the demands on emerging young musicians are increasing apace. The modern virtuoso violinist must not only play to a level of technical perfection that in previous generations was thought to be extraordinary and is nowadays relatively commonplace, but also be expert in a wide variety of musical styles and genres. Nor is a successful career solely based on musical achievements as presentation and an understanding of the music business generally have become increasingly important factors in achieving this goal.The Michael Hill International Violin Competition is mindful of what is required to be a successful artist at the top of the profession and the past prize winners in this competition have exhibited just those distinctive qualities necessary for a long and fruitful career.
I am proud that in its short history, this competition has achieved a reputation around the world as one with the highest standards and integrity. An outstanding attribute of this competition is that a special atmosphere exists that conveys to each participant empathy, friendship and an appreciation of their talents by both judges and the New Zealand public alike; an ethos that has always been fostered by the efforts of the generous benefactors behind this international event, Michael and Christine Hill.
The members of the prestigious judging panel are all highly-accomplished performers, teachers and competition winners in their own right, and have been specially selected to bring to this event their particular experience from a wide variety of musical backgrounds and traditions. Judges that have served on this panel include Pierre Amoyal, Pamela Frank, Dong Suk Kang, Mark Kaplan, Boris Kuschnir, Paul Kantor, Dene Olding, Hu Kun, Takako Nishizaki, Justine Cormack, Michael Dauth. Radoslaw Szulc, Oleh Krysa, Phillipe Graffin, Shmuel Ashkenasi and Wilma Smith.
The glorious tradition of violin playing continues to be well-served by the wonderful young contestants who come to New Zealand every two years and the natural beauty of New Zealand is a perfect stage on which to showcase their solo virtuoso and chamber music skills. I believe they will all feel enriched by the experience of this competition and leave as better performers, regardless of the results, and with a camaraderie that will last a lifetime.
International violin competitions are judged by the quality of the competitors, the quality and integrity of their judges and the administration and organisation of the event itself. It is without hesitation that I can state that, based on these criteria, the Michael Hill International Violin Competition has already established itself at the forefront of the field. Please join us at latitude 45 degrees South (Queenstown) in June 2011 for the beginning of an extraordinary week showcasing the best violin talent from around the world.
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Dene Olding, Artistic Adviser
