It's one of the world's most prestigious music competitions and it happens right here.

Conductor Masaaki Suzuki tells William Dart he can't live without daily rice or music.

French pianist's latest release is more than just greatest hits, writes William Dart

The rhythms and patterns are strong in the RNZ Ballet's latest show, writes Raewyn Whyte.

Play about dire state of sex education in NZ could lead to change, says theatre director.

Pop-culture community 'buzzing' as Armageddon prepares to invade the Bay of Plenty.

Books editor Dionne Christian wraps up the highlights of the Auckland writers festival.

Violinist Justine Cormack signed off after 15 years at NZTrio's Swoop concert.

Visiting horn player leads the APO in elegant performance, writes William Dart.

Shortland Street script producer tells Sarah Daniell it all starts with words.

Ethan Sills discovers the Shortland Street cast still find the comedy in the drama.

Artist Dan Tippett is a maestro of the spray can.

Narrow Neck swimmer Nicholas Tarling was a pioneer in Asian studies at a time of change.

An opportunity for local artists to combine creativity and conservation is unveiled today.

Pianist Michael Houstoun is a man with a musical mission, writes William Dart.

Catherine Chidgey was years into writing her fourth novel but tore it up and started again

Harry Potter fans are in for a treat at this weekend's Auckland Writers Festival.

A teacher is learning Maori language and customs to take back to her students in Europe.

Residents will find out in two weeks if their homes will be taken for a new water plant.

Greg Fleming reviews the latest crop of crime fiction.

A personable Rumon Gamba introduced the first concert of APO's Pushing Boundaries.

Kathryn Stott opened with a perfectly shaded Nocturne.

The winner of the Ockham New Zealand Book award prize will pocket $50,000.

Sci-fi keeps finding Gillian Anderson, she tells Michele Manelis.

Nick Broomfield falls in love making a biopic, writes Francesca Rudkin.

Kevin Bacon talks about one of the most complex male characters he has ever played.

Rhys Mathewson describes how the late John Clarke contributed to NZ's comedy landscape.

Blair Strang heads back to the 90s with his latest project. He talks to Dionne Christian.

Greg Fleming reviews books from Dennis Lehane, Peter Swanson,Chris Carter and C.J. Carver.

Italy gets taste of New Zealand as Lisa Reihana's art opens at Venice Art Biennale.