Classical music comes alive for kids at Baycourt

Opus Orchestra performs with Jackie Clarke and children in the 2023 Hairy Maclary-inspired event. Photo / Richard Lummus

If you think classical music and kids don’t mix, think again. Opus Orchestra is about to prove they do with its high-energy, family-friendly concert Party Time at Baycourt on Saturday, May 24, from 4pm.

It’s not your average sit-still-and-be-quiet performance – instead Party Time is designed to make music fun and accessible for children of all ages as well as the adults who bring them with interactive moments, toe-tapping percussion and opportunities for kids to join the musicians on-stage.

The orchestra features top-tier professional musicians from Hamilton, Tauranga and Rotorua, as well as freelancers from Auckland.

“The players love doing these kid-friendly concerts,” said musical director Peter Walls. “It’s satisfying and heartwarming to see such positive responses from youngsters.”

Opus Orchestra will be accompanied by soprano Georgia Jamieson Emms, known for her engaging stage presence and beautiful voice that brings songs to life.

With pieces like Antonio Salieri’s playful party scene and classic pieces from Mozart, children will learn to recognise different instruments while enjoying the magic of live performance that gets everyone dancing – quite literally, in the case of the well-known song I Could Have Danced All Night.

Opus Orchestra’s past successful shows have featured everything from Hairy Maclary to the Emperor and the Nightingale. Party Time promises to be no different – a perfect introduction to classical music that the whole family will love.

Tickets can be bought at www.eventfinda.co.nz/2025/party-time-fun-for-the-family-with-georgia-jamieson-emms/tauranga.

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