Michael Fowler Centre
John Psathas Group: Chamber Music NZ Live
Overview
The John Psathas Group, presented by Chamber Music New Zealand, brings the visionary compositions of New Zealand-Greek maestro John Psathas to the Michael Fowler Centre in Wellington.
Internationally acclaimed for scoring the 2004 Athens Olympics opening ceremony and collaborations with jazz icons like Michael Brecker and Joshua Redman, Psathas blends classical, electronica, jazz, and global influences into dynamic chamber works performed in over 50 countries. This event showcases his prolific output, now focused on urgent social commentary through virtuosic live performance. The Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington's premier concert hall, provides an acoustically superb setting for this intimate musical journey.[1][2][3] 
Highlights
Olympic Composer: John Psathas gained global fame scoring the 2004 Athens Olympics opening ceremony, blending cultures in epic soundscapes.[1][3]
Genre Fusion: Influenced by hip-hop, house, jazz, and electronica, Psathas creates rhythmic, boundary-breaking chamber music.[1][2]
Global Reach: His works performed in 50+ countries across all continents, including Antarctica, with recent premieres worldwide.[2][3]
Star Collaborations: Teamed with Michael Brecker, Joshua Redman, Serj Tankian, and Salman Rushdie for visionary projects.[2][3]
Social Commentary: Recent shift to urgent themes via live performance, video, text, and cinematic soundscapes.[4]
Wellington Roots: Born in Wellington, former Victoria University professor now composes full-time from his beach retreat.[1][5]
Sentiment Analysis
Psathas's genre-blending compositions captivate global audiences.
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Epic collaborations with legends like Serj Tankian thrill fans.
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Dynamic rhythms from hip-hop and jazz influences energize performances.
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Visionary works inspire and move concertgoers worldwide.
Limited awareness of classical music scene outside niche circles.
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High demand may lead to quick sell-outs for popular shows.
Know Before You Go
Held at Michael Fowler Centre, 4 Taranaki Street, Wellington, NZ, the venue requires no large bags—small purses only for security checks at entry. All ages welcome with no restrictions, though children under 14 must be supervised. Arrive early for parking in nearby Te Aro or use public transport; accessible seating available upon request via ticket provider.
Hot Tip
Book premium seats in the stalls for optimal acoustics in the Michael Fowler Centre, as Psathas's rhythmic percussion-driven works shine with direct sound immersion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Meeting Point
Michael Fowler Centre Wellington NZ NZ
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