Our presentation of an eclectic mix of choral music - from both classical and modern sacred pieces to 19th century operetta to contemporary New Zealand works - delighted two very well attended concert performances at Leigh and at Warkworth.
The title of this concert came from a rousing Latin chorus by American composer David Giardiniere.
It has been pleasing to give an airing to some works we had already been preparing last year but were unable to perform because of COVID restrictions. These included a serene piece by impressionist composer Claude Debussy and, in contrast, four joyful songs from Johann Strauss's Die Fledermaus.
We were also delighted to introduce to our audience some pieces by contemporary New Zealand composers Jenny McLeod and David Hamilton.
A small group of women singers presented some lighter colourful songs as interludes between the full choir works.
Christmas Concert
Who are the Kowhai Singers?
Kowhai Singers is a community choir based in Warkworth, a thriving rural town about 70km north of Auckland City. With a strength of about 40 men and women the choir draws its members from the town and surrounding districts.
We normally present two or three full program concerts each year often with the support of soloists and instrumental musicians from outside of the choir.
A
wide variety of music is performed from Renaissance
madrigals to recent New Zealand choral compositions. The list includes
Baroque masses, classical art songs, songs from the
American Songbook and works from the modern English choral
tradition. There is often a sprinkling of songs in
lighter vein. The style of concert presented can best be obtained from
perusing the selection of past concert programs that can be viewed at Gallery. See what we've been doing lately on the News page.
The choir enjoys the support of a loyal following from the wider community who have come to expect an evening (or occasionally a winter's afternoon) performance of fine music, thoroughly rehearsed and presented to a very high standard.
Kowhai Singers welcomes new members. If you want to sing with a group of friendly, enthusiastic music makers from all walks of life please contact us and come along to the next rehearsal or attend our next concert.
Recent Concerts
Over two afternoon performances on 13, 14 May 2017, both booked to absolute capacity, more than 500 patrons thrilled to the voices of four top class soloists and two choirs - Kowhai Singers and Matakantata - in their best form ever. Supporting the singers was an instrumental ensemble of 10 players and organist.
Conductor Peter Cammell accepted a standing ovation at the end of both performances on behalf of all taking part.
Please go to the Gallery page to see a video of some of the Hallelujah Chorus recorded at the Saturday performance.
This was a triumph, enjoyed by large audiences at both venues.
