The “Michael Hill” is recognised as one of the most sought-after international violin prizes and the careers of future musical legends are launched here in New Zealand when they go head to head for a prize package valued at over $100,000. 

16 of the finest young violinists (ages 18-28 from all over the world) will have just been run through the gauntlet of Paganini, Bach, sonatas, a new NZ commission and show pieces in the first two rounds of this major violin event held in Queenstown.  

The advancing six semi-finalists’ impeccable artistry and leadership skills are on display in Round III when, on just 90 minutes’ rehearsal, they perform Mozart’s sublime string quintets with eminent NZ musicians Amalia Hall, Gillian Ansell, Robert Ashworth and Ashley Brown.  This is probably their hardest round to convincingly lead an ensemble they’ve never met playing Mozart who is known for exposing any weakness.  The goal is to make it look and sound easy.  Cheer them on and see who comes out on top and makes it to the Grand Finale on Saturday 10 June in the Auckland Town Hall with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra when three finalists perform concertos, conducted by legendary Andrew Litton.