Michael Hill International Violin Competition Tickets

Round III, in Auckland Town Hall’s Concert Chamber, marks the competition’s thrilling semi-finals. From an original 16 competitors who went head-to-head in Queenstown’s quarter-finals, the six semi-finalists’ impeccable artistry, ensemble and leadership skills are on display as they perform dramatic piano quintets with eminent NZ musicians. In 2026, they are joined by NZTrio violinist Amalia Hall, cellist Matthias Balzat and pianist Jian Liu, and violist Robert Ashworth (Auckland Philharmonia), to compete in what is considered the Competition’s most difficult round – chamber music. Cheer them on and find out which three will be selected to move on to Competition’s coveted Grand Final taking place at the Auckland Town Hall Saturday 6 June, with each performing a concerto with the Auckland Philharmonia under the baton of Alan Buribayev.

After an intense series of quarter and semi-finals in Queenstown and Auckland, the 2026 Michael Hill International Violin Competition will come to its thrilling climax at Auckland Town Hall on Saturday 6 June. Three extraordinary young violinists, aged 18 to 26, will showcase their virtuosity and artistry alongside the Auckland Philharmonia in the competition’s coveted Grand Final. This is the pinnacle of one of the world’s most prestigious violin competitions, in which technical brilliance meets emotional depth across three unforgettable concertos. For audiences, it is a rare opportunity to witness the future stars of classical music at the moment their careers are launched. Expect drama, passion and breathtaking performances as the judges decide who will be crowned the 2026 Winner.