Established in 1993 as ‘Manukau’s orchestra’ with active support from the Manukau City Council and the Manukau community, the MSO has grown from a 22-piece ensemble to a full symphony orchestra with around 80 musicians.

The Manukau Symphony Orchestra has a unique mix of professional, student and community musicians, and is known for its ‘very special spirit’.

Within MSO, you will find community and student musicians, mentored by professional musicians, playing challenging and rewarding repertoire.

Behind every great orchestra is a great team, working behind the scenes. Those working in essential roles such as management, administration, librarian duties, marketing, funding, and orchestra management and logistics are critical to the ongoing success of MSO.

Youth musicians are an important part of the MSO whānau. In recognising and fostering talented youth musicians, a number of scholarships are available each year.