About
Despite a non-orchestral family background, music has been a constant in my life. My formative years were filled with singing and playing various instruments, leading me to embrace orchestral music in my later years.
My academic and professional journey is diverse, spanning Pharmacy (NZ Pharmaceutical Society), Divinity (Melbourne Colleges of Theology and London University), and Psychology (Massey and Melbourne Universities), alongside a career in Australian Government Administration and private sector consulting.
A passion for Australian Indigenous Leadership development was a highlight of my 33 years living in Australia, and reflects a deep commitment to community engagement and empowerment.
Making music is a privilege that carries immense societal value. Music has, of course, been demonstrated to be good for the brain and the psyche, not just ours, but also of our audiences and the wider community. It is more than an art form; it is a social and cultural enterprise that is integral to our society's fabric.
My journey towards a community orchestras association is backed by extensive research and personal experience. I have come to see a world brimming with potential for our NZ Community orchestras. Also, a successful application for a Lotteries grant has meant that an attempt to create an Association could be and has been made.
I am excited to explore the untapped potential of community orchestras. I envision a future where orchestras play a pivotal role in our cultural and social landscape, driven by innovation and a deeper connection with our audiences.
Hello, I'm Ross Gurney, founder of Community Orchestras New Zealand.
We are grateful for the support of the NZ Lottery Grants Board in making this website possible.
Anthony Ferner is Principal Flute Emeritus of the Christchurch Symphony, and former lecturer in flute at the University of Canterbury.
He trained in England at the Guildhall of Music studying with Peter Lloyd (Principal Flute LSO) Trevor Wye and William Bennett, and has had a 17 year career in Australia playing in the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Australian opera and Ballet Orchestra before returning to New Zealand in 1996.
He is an active recitalist and chamber music player and his recordings are heard regularly on Radio New Zealand concert program.
He coaches chamber music at all levels including university, community groups and had many successful groups in the national finals for the NZCT Chamber Music Contest for secondary school students.
He has studied conducting in St Petersburg, London and Milan and conducted the Christchurch Symphony, St Petersburg Chamber Orchestra, Radio/TV Tbilisi Orchestra, Wellington City Opera and Sydney Mozart players, L’Estro Armonico Strings and guested with New Zealand regional orchestras.
He was musical director of the Risingholme orchestra for 7 years and has conducted other community orchestras around New Zealand as well as Christchurch’s Resonance Ensemble.
He enjoys sharing his orchestral experience working with orchestras throughout the country and is associated with the CSO outreach program.
