At the World’s Edge
At the World’s Edge (AWE) is an international spring chamber music festival rooted in the Queenstown Lakes region of New Zealand, with international chapters in Chicago and London.
AWE was launched in 2021 by fellow Kiwis and violinists Benjamin Baker and Justine Cormack, creating a new stage for classical music in the Queenstown Lakes region. It has since become a key part of the cultural landscape of Central Otago, bringing musicians and audiences together across borders and generations.
In 2023, AWE expanded its international mission, sharing more of Aotearoa New Zealand with the world, and bringing more of the world into New Zealand. This began with events in the USA and UK, and led to the launch of AWE Chicago in 2025 and AWE London in 2026.
Alongside commissioning and championing New Zealand composers, AWE’s Emerging Artist Mentorship Pathway supports outstanding young instrumentalists as they take their next steps towards overseas study and international careers.
Today, AWE acts as a cultural bridge between hemispheres, connecting artists, audiences, and emerging talent through performance, mentorship, and commissioning.