Kenneth's debut as a New Zealand soloist was singing Mozart's Requiem for Auckland Choral on 19 June 1976. It is therefore fitting that, thirty-six years later, he performs the same work to conclude his professional soloist career.

During that time, Kenneth has established a reputation as one of the country's most consistent, reliable performers, known especially for his interpretations of the great oratorio works.

This genre is his forte and this is evidenced in a performance of Solomon with Auckland Choral of which William Dart wrote “Cornish thrilled with his ability to sustain a narrative, the culmination of decades of oratorio experience” (NZ Herald, May 2002).

In 2000 he was made a Life Member of Auckland Choral, and in 2004 was elected President - two distinctions he was honoured to accept.

Born in Australia, he trained at the New South Wales Conservatorium of Music under the great baritone Harold William and, after after moving to New Zealand in 1975, he was coached by Beatrice Webster MBE for more than twenty years.

Kenneth's repertoire is vast and he has performed opera, lieder, oratorio and recitals for leading choirs and orchestras in concert, and on radio and television. Career highlights include the World Premier of Douglas Mews Lenten opera "The Kiss" and as cantor for the Papal Mass.

For Auckland Choral he has served under three musical directors and sung the tenor solos of Handel's Messiah more than twenty-five times. A semi-staged performance of the Bach St Matthew Passion, directed by Bobby Alderton, was particular special for the meaning it gave to an already beautiful score.

Other highlights include Missa Criolla (Ramirez), Te Deum (Berlioz), Beethoven's 9th Symphony with Sir Donald McIntyre and Dame Malvina Major and a concert titled Highlights from Italian Opera. As President and soloist, Kenneth thoroughly enjoyed a tour performing through the South Island to mark the Society's 150th Anniversary.

Kenneth has taught privately for more than fifteen years, passing on his experience and enthusiasm for music and singing to his students. He stresses the importance of a good technique, diction, musicianship and a respect for the composer - the foundations from which a good singer develops.

The Choral Society has been, and will continue to be a very special part of Kenneth's life. He will continue in his role as President and in the newer role of vocal consultant to the choir.

Source: Kenneth Cornish

Ken pictured here at the Celebration 150 Anniversary of Auckland Choral.	Ken pictured here with his wife Trish and Auckland Choral Music Director, Uwe Grodd, taken after the Mozart Requiem concert on 9 July 2011.

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