The New Zealand Symphony has named Carmel Walsh as the Chair of the board.

Minister Paul Goldsmith said, “I am delighted to announce Carmel Walsh will be officially stepping into the role of Chair of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, having been acting Chair since April. Carmel is a longstanding member of the NZSO Board, and is a former board member of the New Zealand Opera School and NZTrio. She carries with her a deep passion for the arts, great understanding of the NZSO and expertise as an experienced barrister and solicitor.”

Tenor Simon O’Neill took to social media and said, “I am so very proud to celebrate the appointment of my wife Carmel, as the Chair of the Board for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Alongside her impressive career as a barrister, Carmel brings so much to this incredible group of musicians. Carmel loves the orchestra and the repertoire, from not only a governance position, but being an accomplished classical musician herself. The kids and I are very proud – as are Fritz and Otto.”