Tickets are now on sale for the chamber music festival At the World’s Edge (AWE).

The festival will return to Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes for the fifth time in October with a programme that explores the complex relationship between music and nature, organisers say.

“As a festival rooted in the landscapes of the Southern Lakes, we’re constantly inspired by our surroundings,” AWE festival director Justine Cormack said. 

“It’s a privilege to celebrate five years of extraordinary performances with artists and audiences who share our belief that music, like nature, can shift our perspective and stir something deeply personal.”

The festival will open with a weekend in Wānaka and the world premiere of a newly commissioned string quintet by John Psathas; the ambitious two-cello work is one of two new pieces commissioned for AWE 2025. 

It is one of seven performances - including celebrated chamber works, lesser-known pieces, and bold new compositions - plus a series of free events.

Performances will come from country’s most acclaimed chamber musicians including pianist Michael Houstoun, cellist James Bush, and Composer in Residence John Psathas, joined by a cast of renowned international artists including UK violinist Anthony Marwood, US violist Yura Lee, and Australian harpsichordist Erin Helyard.

AWE’s series of public performances, workshops and talks will extend the conversation beyond music, with acclaimed architect Fred van Brandenburg set to share insights into biomimicry and design, and Olympic freeskier Jossi Wells planning to explore the parallels between performance, creativity, and the alpine environment.

Following the main ticketed performances, AWE continues with a week of school visits, during which AWE artists bring chamber music directly to students of all ages across the region.

At the World’s Edge will run from October 4-12, with performances in Cromwell, Bannockburn, Wānaka, and Queenstown.

Find more information and book tickets at the festival website.