The Central Otago Regional Choir, with guest soprano Sue
Densem, of Christchurch, in Wanaka in 2007. The choir and
members of the Central Otago Regional Orchestra perform in
Queenstown tomorrow. Photo by Marjorie Cook.
Traditional folk songs from the British Isles distinguish
the spring concert by the Central Otago Regional Choir and
members of the Central Otago Regional Orchestra in Queenstown
tomorrow.
A total of 30 choristers plus orchestra musicians from the
Wakatipu, Wanaka, Cromwell and Alexandra perform The Sprig
of Thyme with guest organist Kemp English, of Nelson, in
St Andrew's Presbyterian Church.
Chorister and treasurer Gavin Jack, of Arrowtown, said this
week the company would feature two more arrangements by
English composer John Rutter for its tour of Wanaka,
Queenstown and Alexandra after audience enthusiasm for the
8-year-old community choir's performance of Rutter's music in
May.
The Sprig of Thyme is a suite of 11 settings of
traditional folk songs, exploring every aspect of the theme
of love, Mr Jack said.
"Rutter breathes new life into these songs with his ...
choral mastery and exquisite orchestration.
"The second work, John Rutter's renowned Gloria - with
its hauntingly beautiful middle movement, contrasted by the
outer movements, where vocal lines soar over pulsating,
vibrant rhythms, powered by a full brass ensemble, percussion
and organ - heralds an exhilarating start to the Christmas
season."
• The concert in St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Stanley St,
begins at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7pm.
Tickets $20 from Unichem Wilkinson's Pharmacy, Queenstown,
Amcal Summerfield's Pharmacy, Frankton, Lakes District
Museum, Arrowtown, and on the door. Free admission for
children.
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