Sunday 25 May
5.00pm
Auckland Town Hall
Verdi’s Requiem is a profound masterpiece, blending sacred reverence with operatic drama. Often called his greatest unstaged opera, it explores the fragility of life and the hope for eternal peace. From the hushed Requiem aeternam to the thunderous Dies Irae, Verdi’s music moves with unmatched emotional force.
Widely recognised as one of the most impactful choral works, the Requiem showcases Verdi at his creative peak, with sweeping melodies, powerful choral writing, and moments of tender beauty. Its demands on soloists, double-chorus, and orchestra create an epic journey through soaring prayer and fiery energy. Verdi’s Requiem is an experience that resonates with the soul — a celebration of life, memory, and transcendence that remains as powerful today as it was at its premiere in 1874. Auckland Choral, joined by the Auckland Chamber Choir and an expanded Pipers Sinfonia, brings together over 200 performers to present this unforgettable experience of this stunning work.
Auckland Choral
Auckland Chamber Choir
Morag Atchison Soprano
Katie Trigg Mezzo-soprano
Jared Holt Tenor
Teddy Tahu Rhodes Bass
Pipers Sinfonia
Uwe Grodd Conductor
Sunday 5 October
4.00pm
Auckland Town Hall
We are thrilled to join forces with the mighty Orpheus Choir Wellington to present Orff’s epic Carmina Burana at the Auckland Town Hall, just one week after our performance in Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre. The thunderous opening of O Fortuna sets the tone for this unforgettable work, exploring the capricious nature of fate with driving rhythms and vivid choral power. Orff’s settings of medieval texts revel in life’s indulgences, from playful, risqué verses to deeply reflective moments — a vibrant celebration of humanity’s passions and struggles. Opening the concert is Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, a radiant work that blends ancient Hebrew texts with his unmistakable energy and lyricism. From the tranquil beauty of The Lord Is My Shepherd to the fiery rhythms of Why Do The Nations Rage, this stunning work calls for togetherness in times of division and captures themes of faith, unity, and joy, creating the perfect prelude to the grandeur of Orff’s masterpiece.
Bernstein Chichester Psalms
Orff Carmina Burana
Orpheus Choir Wellington
Auckland Choral
Emma Pearson Soprano
Stephen Coco Diaz Countertenor
James Harrison Baritone
Uwe Grodd Conductor
Sunday 30 November
4.30pm
St Matthew-in-the-City
Join us for a heartwarming and fun evening of festive music, featuring Christmas and summery works including music by Chris Artley, John Rutter, and David Hamilton. Enjoy traditional carols, including Gaudete, the haunting Coventry Carol, and the jubilant For Unto Us a Child is Born from Handel’s Messiah. Sing along with your favourite traditional carols, making this concert a true community celebration.
Auckland Choral will be joined by instrumentalists including organist Edmond Wong and tenor Chris McRae for a joyful concert programme that promises to delight and inspire. Perfect for a summer’s evening, this concert is a celebration of the holiday spirit and Auckland’s rich choral tradition.
Auckland Choral
Chris McRae Tenor
Edmond Wong Piano & Organ
Uwe Grodd Conductor
Sunday 14 December, 5.00pm
Monday 15 December, 7.00
Auckland Town Hall
Handel’s Messiah has captivated audiences around the globe for over three centuries, its timeless melodies offering a message of hope and renewal that transcends its biblical roots. Originally composed as an Easter oratorio, it has evolved into a cherished Christmas tradition, resonating with audiences during the festive season.
Since its 1742 debut in Dublin, Messiah has been a profound force for good, raising funds for charitable causes. Its association with the spirit of generosity at Christmas has solidified its place as a seasonal highlight. Auckland Choral is proud to present this iconic work, showcasing dazzling solos, stirring choral harmonies, and virtuosic orchestral passages — all brimming with inspiration for the year ahead. Look out for the announcement of our soloists in Spring 2025!
Auckland Choral has upheld the tradition of performing Handel’s Messiah for nearly 170 years, making it a cornerstone of the city’s festive celebrations. Join us in experiencing the unifying power of this beloved masterpiece and celebrate the season with music that unites generations.
Auckland Choral
Pipers Sinfonia
Uwe Grodd Conductor
Soloists to be announced later this year.