“From Tallis to Rutter”—the phrase describes the vast scope of the Great British Choral Tradition. Thomas Tallis was an Elizabethan musical star in the 16th century, while five centuries later, in the same tradition, John Rutter writes some of the most imaginative choral music to be found anywhere today.
The motet Spem in Alium is in forty, yes forty— parts, and moves through myriad combinations to form a stunning vocal kaleidoscope.
Composed in 1985 as a tribute to his father, Rutter’s smooth but modern Requiem often nods fondly towards some of the composer’s own musical “fathers”, including Fauré, Mahler, and Gershwin.
Separating Tallis from Rutter, Vaughan Williams appears through his ravishing instrumental work based on everyone’s favourite English folksong Greensleeves.
Morag Atchison, Soprano
Auckland Choral
Pipers Sinfonia
Uwe Grodd, Conductor
Tickets are available at eventfinda.co.nz or phone 0800 BUYTIXS (0800 289 8497).
Price $45, concessions available.
Please note that some seats have obstructed views.
John has a passion for choral singing and has been a singing member of Auckland Choral for 30 years. He has been fully involved in the society throughout that time serving for 20 years on the Auckland Choral Management Committee, much of that time as Deputy Chairman of the 
Jim Allardyce here from Whangarei. Commuting to Auckland for work, down on a Tuesday and back on a Friday, has opened up a new side to my social calendar. Rehearsals at the choir have become my weekly highlight forming a natural part of my week. Joining only this year, I remember going for my first visit to "check it all out" - I sat at the back amazed at the choir sight-reading Mendelssohn in German (as it was their first reading and performance of the piece). Very soon I was in the thick of it - rolling my r's in Mendelssohn's tongue with the other singers in my bass one section. My inaugural concert in the Auckland Town Hall was unforgettable as the choir was stupendous.
I joined Auckland Choral in 2008. I enjoy the challenges of the big works which are inspired by Uwe's leadership. Singing with Auckland Choral is as important to me as breathing! And second only to my husband and family. My grandmother said that you should 'do The Messiah' at least once before you die! I have have had the privilege of singing it many times. I have made many friends and hope to sing with Choral for many years to come.
