Colossal Chorale at the Cathedral (Orpheus Choir)

Colossal Chorale at the Cathedral (Orpheus Choir)

The Orpheus Choir is delighted to present two choral masterpieces in one short winter concert: Poulenc’s playful Gloria and Bruckner’s sublime Te Deum.

Poulenc’s Gloria (1959-1960) gives us an insight into his sense of humour and the love of life that shines through all his music. It moves from solemnity to mischievous exuberance without missing a beat. Poulenc himself said “While writing the Gloria I had in mind those Crozzoli frescoes with angels sticking out their tongues, and also some solemn-looking Benedictine monks that I saw playing football one day”.

The magnificent Te Deum (1881-1884) was Bruckner’s favourite work – from its thunderous unison opening, to its beautiful solo sections, and suspenseful and brooding later movements. In Bruckner’s words: “When God finally calls me and asks ‘What have you done with the talent I gave you, my lad’, I will present to Him the score of my Te Deum and I hope He will judge me mercifully.”

As well as the choir, musical director Brent Stewart has assembled an excellent group of soloists: Rachel Alexander (soprano), Rebecca Woodmore (alto), James Benjamin Rodgers (tenor – currently singing in Madame Butterfly in Christchurch) and Jamie Henare (bass). Douglas Mews (organ) and the chamber orchestra complete the impressive line-up of musicians.

The lush acoustic of the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul will set off these famous works perfectly, for a concert that will brighten the coldest Wellington winter evening.

Date: Saturday 22 August 2015

Time: 7.30pm

Venue: Wellington Cathedral of St Paul, Molesworth Street

Bookings: Ticketek www.ticketek.co.nz (booking fee may apply)

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