Between February 2027 and February 2028 four musicians (two violinists, one violist, and one cellist), will form the Fellowship Quartet. The programme begins with attendance at the 2027 Adam Summer School for Chamber Music, before working closely throughout the year with members of the New Zealand String Quartet in conjunction with study at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington. The experience culminates in participation at the 2028 Adam Chamber Music Festival in Nelson.

​

This opportunity is recommended for students completing undergraduate (second-year and above) or postgraduate (Diploma, Honours and Masters) studies. The programme will be based primarily between Wellington and Nelson.

​

Fellowship Quartet members will receive:

• A $5,000 bursary per musician to support study, living costs, professional development, or other expenses at the fellow's discretion.

• Sponsored attendance at the 2027 Adam Summer School for Chamber Music in Nelson.

• Regular chamber music coaching from members of the New Zealand String Quartet throughout the academic year.

• Professional development and arts administration mentoring from the NZSQ Trust.

• Performance opportunities across a range of concert platforms, including:

  • The Racket Lounge

  • Between the Lines

  • ArtSplash

  • Plus, additional engagements as opportunities arise throughout the year.

• Participation in the 2028 Adam Chamber Music Festival along with 10 - 12 community outreach concerts during the festival in Nelson.

​

​

​

 

Tuesday 1 September 2026

- Applications open.
 
Sunday 4 October 2026
- Applications close at 5:00pm.

Friday 16 October 2026
- Shortlisted applicants notified and interview slots allocated.

 

Monday 19 October - Friday 23 October 2026
- Interviews for shortlisted applicants conducted.

 
Friday 6 November 2026

- All successful applicants will be notified.

- Unsuccessful applicants will be advised on the outcome of their Adam Summer School application (if applicable).

The successful Fellowship Quartet must be available for the following dates and activities:

• Saturday 6 February - Monday 15 February 2027

To attend the Adam Summer School for Chamber Music in Nelson.

 

• February – June 2027 (Trimester 1 at VUW)

To participate in additional activities (TBD) including, coaching with the NZSQ, performances, professional development workshops, etc.

 

• July – November 2027 (Trimester 2 at VUW)

To participate in additional activities (TBD) including, coaching with the NZSQ, performances, professional development workshops, etc.

 

• Thursday 3 February – Saturday 12 February 2028

To participate in the 2028 Adam Chamber Music Festival.

​​​

 

 

​

Applicants must:

• Play violin, viola, or cello.

• Be at least 18 years old on 1 February 2027.

• Be available to participate fully in Fellowship Quartet activities from February 2027 to February 2028.

• Meet all admission requirements at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington.

• Be eligible to enrol at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington in 2027.

• Have the right to work in New Zealand.

 

Applications are welcomed from both:

• Individual musicians

• Pre-formed string quartets

Please note: All members of a pre-formed quartet must submit their own individual application. Applications will be assessed on an individual basis, and while pre-formed quartets are encouraged to apply, selection of one member does not guarantee selection of the entire ensemble. The final Fellowship Quartet will comprise the four musicians selected by the panel.

Successful applicants will be:

• Undertaking study at tertiary level.

• Motivated and organised individuals who are ready to work in a professional setting.

• Interested in developing non-performance skills required for a successful and sustainable career in the arts, e.g. marketing, publicity, fundraising, business skills, and arts management (no prior experience in these areas is required).
   

​

​

 

 

If you have any questions about the opportunity or the application process, please contact us at: nzsq@nzsq.org.nz

​

​