“The country’s leading professional orchestra says work needs to happen to improve its staffing make-up, in particular by employing more women and people from diverse backgrounds,” writes Andre Chumko in Wednesday’s (9/22) Stuff (Wellington, NZ). “New Zealand Symphony Orchestra chief executive Peter Biggs, director of strategy and corporate services Kaine Thompson and board chairman Laurence Kubiak appeared before a parliamentary select committee on Wednesday.” In addition to citing recent progress on finances and a new concert hall, “Biggs said the NZSO was working on a new set of values which were more audience-driven, while continuing its tradition of excellence and innovation. It altered its touring model to deeply engage with diverse communities—particularly Māori and rangatahi—and reverse its carbon footprint, while also improve accessibility and inclusiveness…. Biggs said the orchestra was ‘very conscious’ of the need for gender balance within its staffing … More young women were coming through as musicians, and being recruited … The NZSO was looking at working with Tongan brass bands … and Pacific choirs…. Collaborations were under way with two iwi—Ngāi Tūhoe and Ngāi Tahu…. It was also looking to invest in a director of Māori engagement.”
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