The Central Otago Regional Orchestra (CORO) is a registered charity and not for profit group, run by volunteers, operating throughout the Central Otago and Lakes District region, with the purposes of benefitting the community by promoting and showcasing orchestral music and encouraging musicians of all ages and abilities to join and improve their proficiency and enjoyment of music, through playing with other musicians in practice and in performance.
In 2026, Rakuto Kurano has taken over the baton as conductor and Musical Director from Ashley Hopkins, who led and developed the orchestra for 9 years. Rakuto brings with him a wide range of experience in performance and producing concerts and has toured professionally across New Zealand with violin, viola, piano, baroque violin, baroque viola, and harpsichord, and has composed multiple musical works, receiving great reviews. Together, Rakuto and CORO have a strong interest in supporting and mentoring young and less confident musicians, both through CORO and via the training orchestra, CORTO. Please do get in touch for further information.