Three sensational female artists deliver a full evening of musical fireworks. Gabriela Montero’s supernatural musical instinct and dexterity has made her a worldwide phenomenon.

The NAC Orchestra is delighted to welcome New Zealand guest conductor Gemma New, who makes her NACO debut with this performance. New brings composer Salina Fisher’s beautiful composition Kintsugi to life and showcases three superlative female artists. Kintsugi is the ancient Japanese art of repairing treasured objects with gold lacquer so that cracks and scars become a beautiful reflection of battles won. Salina’s piece draws a musical parallel, celebrating the restorative power of music and art.

Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Montero’s skills and talent border on the mystical—she can play the classics or improvise on any musical theme her audience suggests. The NAC Orchestra is always delighted to welcome her back to Southam Hall! Tonight, Gabriela plays Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3. This concerto is a musical supernova that is bright and beautiful, as well as a serious workout for any pianist who takes it on.

In most symphonies, the violins take centre stage throughout, but in Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, every section gets a chance to shine. It’s optimistic and full of life, despite the great composer’s struggles with his sexuality and depression.