Grab a spot on our couch and enjoy the noise at The Racket Lounge - a chill classical music series showcasing up-and-coming Pōneke musicians.
If you’ve never been to a classical concert before, or if you have and now you want to see talented emerging musicians experimenting and playing what they want to play, then The Racket Lounge is for you. Over the past two seasons we’ve seen classical covers, jazz ensembles, video game soundtracks, original compositions, loop pedals, poetry and much more. Our 2026 season is shaping up to be just as epic, plus with your tickets starting at just $5 you can afford to take a chance on something new.
Each concert will feature a different line up of musicians and genres, to be announced a week before each session. If you’re a musician looking to perform at The Racket Lounge, then head to the New Zealand String Quartet’s website to see how to apply.
Our first Racket Lounge concert, With a Twist, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Racket Lounge. There will of course be your typical classical concert ingredients – pianos, strings, a wind instrument or two. But this concert’s line up that is not all that it seems. With a cocktail of genres and styles, this programme will surprise and delight. From 4-hand piano pieces to unconventional jazz trios and more, there’ll be something for everyone to sink their teeth into - while enjoying a treat from the bar of course. Come ready to taste what Wellington’s new music scene has to offer.
The Racket Lounge is created and presented by the New Zealand String Quartet Trust - Te Rōpū Tūrū o Aotearoa, New Zealand’s longest-running professional string quartet. With support from Wellington City Council.
Tickets are choose your price starting from just $5.
Please note that Bedlam & Squalor is a licensed venue, so under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Everyone must bring ID.
