2019 Season

Garnet Tregonning

Garnet has a long involvement with Auckland Choral after his first introduction to singing in Lead Roles in Gilbert and Sullivan Operettas at Kings High School in Dunedin,followed by being a member of Capping Sextet at Otago University with Sir William Southgate in the 1960s.

First joined the Choir under Ray Wilson in 1968-71 as a Junior Doctor before travelling Overseas for Orthopaedic Training in Canada and the UK.Rejoined under Bill Power 1976-1986 then again in the mid 1990s up to the present time-so have been a member on and off over some 47 years.Was a committee member for 5 years and continue to be inspired by the opportunity to be a member of the Choir which I believe continues to improve and I believe is currently performing at its highest level over the past 40 years –no doubt due to the superb direction of Uwe and the support of Elizabeth and the wonderful Vocal Coaches.

Currently working full-time as a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Middlemore Hospital. 

Rachel Harrison

I am originally from the UK where I studied music. After a few years in London working in Orchestral Management the call of the sea became strong and I spent the next few years yachting. During my time in the Pacific I ended up sailing to New Zealand where I decided to step ashore and have called New Zealand home for just over 9 years. 

During my time at sea I missed my music, but my clarinet playing days were long gone. I decided I would give singing a try, even though I was a little nervous of my abilities, so I approached Auckland Choral. As soon as I attended my first rehearsal I realised this is what I had been missing and have been a member of Auckland Choral ever since. Auckland Choral became a family to me, and I passionately supported it by being on the Management Committee for several years until May 2016, including Convener of the Music Committee. I love my Wednesday night rehearsals and being able to perform magical works in fabulous venues with friends!

Traude Leibbrand

Traude has been a choral singer since 1998 and she is the immediate past Chair of Auckland Choral. In this role she has been instrumental in updating the way the organisation operates and she has learnt valuable lessons about running a voluntary, community based organisation - something she feels very passionate about.  As a health professional running her own business, she is aware of the many positive effects that choral singing has on one's well-being - physically, mentally and socially. 

In 2015 she was invited to become a trustee of the Auckland Choral Foundation, a role in which she can continue to actively contribute to develop and nurture choral singing in New Zealand, and Auckland Choral in particular.