The New Zealand Chamber Soloists is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1987 by two New Zealand musicians, cellist James Tennant and pianist Katherine Austin. The ensemble has since become one of the most renowned chamber music groups in New Zealand and has gained international recognition for its exceptional performances. James Tennant and Katherine Austin met while studying at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. They quickly discovered a shared passion for chamber music and decided to form their own ensemble. The New Zealand Chamber Soloists was born out of this shared love for music and a desire to bring the beauty of chamber music to audiences around the world. The ensemble's main members are James Tennant on cello, Katherine Austin on piano, Lara Hall on violin, and Robert Orr on oboe. All four members are highly accomplished musicians in their own right, with extensive experience performing both as soloists and as part of various ensembles. The New Zealand Chamber Soloists have performed extensively throughout New Zealand and around the world. They have played in some of the most prestigious concert halls in Europe, Asia, and North America, including the Wigmore Hall in London, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and Carnegie Hall in New York. One of the highlights of the ensemble's career was their performance at the Edinburgh International Festival in 1996. The New Zealand Chamber Soloists were the first New Zealand ensemble to be invited to perform at the festival, and their performance was met with critical acclaim. The ensemble has also performed at other major international festivals, including the Salzburg Festival and the Hong Kong Arts Festival. The New Zealand Chamber Soloists have recorded several albums, including a highly acclaimed recording of the complete Beethoven piano trios. Their recordings have received numerous awards and accolades, including the New Zealand Music Award for Best Classical Album. In addition to their performances and recordings, the New Zealand Chamber Soloists are also committed to music education. They regularly give masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and have been involved in several educational initiatives aimed at promoting classical music to a wider audience. The New Zealand Chamber Soloists have received numerous awards and honors throughout their career. In 2004, they were awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for their services to music. They have also been awarded the KBB Music Award for Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand Music, and the Creative New Zealand Award for Excellence in the Arts. Overall, the New Zealand Chamber Soloists are a highly respected and accomplished ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Their commitment to excellence in performance, recording, and education has earned them a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest chamber music groups in the world.

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