The Post wrote:
“The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra continued to excel under the baton of Gemma New. Their rendition of the immense Seventh was characterised above all by New’s ability to intelligently layer sound, as Bruckner’s soaring melodies and complex orchestration were brilliantly balanced in a sound-world that felt fully three-dimensional.”
The New Zealand Herald wrote:
“We soon experienced the mezzo [Joyce DiDonato] in full soaring glory, with her remarkably lustrous and malleable lower register.”
“Throughout [the Berlioz], singer, conductor and musicians were totally as one"
“Mozart launched the evening with just the right esprit.”
The Post wrote:
“It was the premiere of New Zealand composer Tabea Squire’s Conversation of the Light-ship and the Tide [...] Full of beautiful textures, it ended delightfully, as intense, driving rhythms opened out into a feeling of quiet and calm.”
“One senses, on listening to one of New’s performances, that every detail has been considered, well in advance, in its relationship to the whole, and that the clearest through-line imaginable runs from start to finish.”
Regional News – Eyes on Wellington wrote:
“Gillam embraced her saxophone inside and out through her impressive breath control, amazing dexterity, and deep, deep musicianship.”
“The orchestra always sounds crisp when Gemma New is conducting.”
