'All parties want to acknowledge and apologise to those affected by these issues'
Two members of the New Zealand String Quartet (NZSQ) have resigned following the launch of an independent investigation into their past conduct.
Helene Pohl and Rolf Gjelsten submitted their resignations after acknowledging that they failed to manage serious and sensitive issues, particularly regarding conflicts of interest, while teaching at Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington (VUW).
They also acknowledged that their conduct fell short of maintaining the values of the NZSQ Trust and VUW's Staff Conduct Policy.
"All parties want to acknowledge and apologise to those affected by these issues," the NZSQ said in a statement. "As a result of these issues, Helene and Rolf felt it was in the best interests of everyone involved that they resigned with immediate effect."
The pair resigned amid an independent employment investigation against them by the trust board, which was launched following concerns raised by VUW.
VUW's statement
According to a spokesperson from the VUW, the pair taught at the school for about two decades but were never formally employed, the New Zealand Herald reported.
"When the relevant Dean first became aware of serious issues of concern, these were raised with the NZSQ Trust and the NZSQ Trust undertook an independent employment investigation," the spokesperson said in a statement.
The spokesperson confirmed to the Herald that the pair would also not be returning to the New Zealand School of Music—Te Kōkī.
Meanwhile, the NZSQ said it acknowledges the 30 years of service by Pohl and Gjelsten.
"Where possible, the Quartet intends to fulfil its remaining 2024 engagements and to present its 2025 season with the addition of special guest artists as it commences the recruitment process for new permanent players to join the ensemble," the board said.
