The year also saw the reformation of the combined Christ’s College–St Margaret’s College choir Collegium. With rehearsals commencing in the middle of Term 1, the choir did extremely well to learn and perform three difficult a cappella pieces for The Big Sing in Term 2. They began with “Coelus Ascendit Hodie”, where the choir had to split into eight parts in order to perform the piece, followed by “People Look East” by Jack Body, and a brilliant arrangement of the ever-popular “Somewhere over the Rainbow”. Collegium was also able to perform at a showcase Chapel service, as well as at the St Margaret’s College cultural showcase. Under the direction of Mr Sutcliffe, it was incredible to see what the group was able to achieve in such a short time frame. While none of the choirs made it through to the national finale, both Collegium and Schola Cantorum were invited to sing at the South Island Cadenza competition. Unfortunately, they were unable to attend due to other College commitments. In recognition of the dedication and commitment to choral activities at
College, Tom Kelly, Nicholas Lidstone, Logan Quigley and Matthew Todd were awarded Honours Ties in Choral Music. These students have been exemplary members of the Chapel Choir for five years, having attended more than 80 per cent of all rehearsals or services and concert engagements in that time. In keeping with tradition, no year is complete without the annual Advent Service and Carols on the Quad. The Chapel Choir welcomed both The Cathedral Grammar School choir and the Medbury School choristers to the Advent Service, and the three choirs combined to perform to a large congregation, with the highlight being the performance of Henry Purcell’s “Rejoice in the Lord Alway”. Carols on the Quad was held on a very warm summer’s evening, creating demanding conditions for the Chapel Choir. As usual, however, the boys gave another fantastic performance. Due to his sudden hospitalisation, Mr Aburn was unable to conduct the choir, but organist Mr Sutcliffe stepped in to lead the choir from behind the organ console. Notable highlights include the choir’s performances of “Sir Christemas” and “A Maiden Most
Gentle”. Special mention needs to be made of Head Treble Edward Nye, who opened “Once in Royal David’s City” with an outstanding solo. As the final carol service for the Year 13 students, it was another notable performance and memorable evening. The commissioning of a waiata, specifically created for Carols on the Quad by the Puanaki whanau, added to the occasion. It was the first time a waiata had been used and the first time the choir had commissioned a work for this event. “Whakamanawa Ki Te Atua” celebrates and honours the Almighty, as we seek His help through the trials and tribulations of life. The commission was made possible thanks to a generous gift from the Rolleston family and this taonga was gifted to the choir and College in a very moving ceremony on Friday 22 November. Of course, the Chapel Choir wouldn’t have had the year we had without the leadership and support of Director of Music Robert Aburn and organist and Assistant Director Nicholas Sutcliffe. Their knowledge of music and their commitment to the choir is what enabled us to achieve so much in 2019. Matthew Todd Head of Chapel Choir
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Register 2019 Culture
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