The Dunedin RSA Choir gave its end-of-year concert in Dunedin Town Hall last night. Conductors Karen Knudsen and Rosemary Tarbotton led it through an enjoyable programme of choral numbers, with supporting items from several invited guests. A French flag at half-mast was alongside the usual display of New Zealand forces flags.
Choral highlights from the choir were a well-paced hearty opener Morte Christe, a toe-tapping Sinatra Melody and the seasonal repertoire of Hallelujah Chorus, Little Drummer Boy and Peace on Earth with solo input from Choral Scholars, Beth Goulstone and Sam Madden. The two scholars, both confident talented young singers, each contributed an aria and a popular solo during the evening, and together a duet, The Prayer, with accompanist Tom McGrath.''
Outcasts'' were a group who stepped down from the choir ranks to provide humour and light close harmony favourites (accompanied by Caroline Schmidt) with Hippopotamus Song, Old Mother Hubbard, when Oscar and Leo made confident debuts with plenty of cute factor and wagging of tails, and a hilarious rendition of Side by Side - all great fun.
Sings Hilda (St Hilda's Collegiate School), directed by Michael Grant, also entertained, performing four choral works, demonstrating the standard that won them a bronze in this year's national Big Sing. The historic reflection from 1915 Anzac Cove included a letter to a soldier's mother back home, and was read by Huia Ockwell, followed by Ode and a minute of silence.
The finale I Vow to Thee My Country ended the concert and was dedicated to the people of France. Accompanist was Alison Paterson. George Chittenden and Ralph Miller added organ and trumpet to many of the items. The evening was compered by Alisdair Morrison.
