Robert Ashworth

Robert Ashworth is a distinguished violist known for his work in New Zealand and Australia. He has served as principal viola for prestigious ensembles such as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra. Ashworth is also a member of the Jade String Quartet in Auckland and has performed with the Australian World Orchestra. His artistry extends to solo performances, and he has a notable collaboration with pianist Sarah Watkins, exemplified in the album *Moonstone*, which features music for viola and piano by New Zealand composers and won the 2022 Classical Album of the Year at the Aotearoa New Zealand Music Awards.

Ashworth’s work includes performances and recordings that celebrate both his instrumental skill and his commitment to contemporary classical music. His involvement in projects such as *Moonstone* and other recent releases like *Flights of Fancy* and *Corybas: Psathas* highlights his vitality in bringing modern compositions to life and contributing significantly to the classical music scene in the region.