The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is a classical music ensemble based in Christchurch, New Zealand. Founded in 1958, the orchestra has become one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the country, known for its high-quality performances and commitment to community engagement. The CSO was founded by a group of local musicians who were passionate about classical music and wanted to create an orchestra that could perform at a professional level. The orchestra's first concert was held in 1959, and it quickly gained a reputation for excellence. Over the years, the CSO has grown in size and scope, and today it is one of the largest and most respected orchestras in New Zealand. The CSO's main members are its musicians, who come from all over the world to perform with the orchestra. The CSO has a core of around 60 musicians, but it can expand to over 100 for larger performances. The orchestra is led by Chief Conductor Benjamin Northey, who has been with the CSO since 2015. Northey is a highly respected conductor who has worked with orchestras all over the world, and he has brought a new level of energy and excitement to the CSO. Over the years, the CSO has performed a wide range of classical music, from the Baroque era to contemporary works. The orchestra has also collaborated with many prominent musicians and composers, including Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Michael Houstoun, and John Psathas. Some of the CSO's most notable performances include its annual Christmas concerts, which are a beloved tradition in Christchurch, as well as its performances of Mahler's Symphony No. 2 and Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. The CSO has also won many awards and accolades over the years. In 2017, the orchestra won the Best Classical Album award at the New Zealand Music Awards for its recording of Gareth Farr's concerto He Poroporoaki. The CSO has also been recognized for its commitment to community engagement, and it has won awards for its education and outreach programs. One of the CSO's most significant achievements was its response to the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. The earthquake, which struck on February 22, 2011, caused widespread damage and loss of life in the city. The CSO's home venue, the Christchurch Town Hall, was severely damaged, and the orchestra was forced to find alternative performance spaces. Despite the challenges, the CSO continued to perform in the months and years following the earthquake, bringing music and hope to the people of Christchurch. The orchestra performed in a variety of venues, including schools, churches, and even a shipping container. In 2019, the CSO returned to the newly renovated Christchurch Town Hall, where it gave a triumphant performance to a sold-out audience. Today, the CSO continues to be a vital part of the cultural life of Christchurch and New Zealand. The orchestra's commitment to excellence and community engagement has made it a beloved institution, and its performances are eagerly anticipated by music lovers throughout the country. With its talented musicians and visionary leadership, the CSO is sure to continue making beautiful music for many years to come.

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