Richard Melville, Music Director for part of 2019, writes

It was a great privilege to be involved as guest Musical Director for the Waiheke Choral Society for this year 2019.

For me personally the year really involved around what we were going to do in  being part of Kara Nelson’s 100th birthday celebrations.

Kara decided that she wanted a “pop in” birthday party at the Village so we became part of a musical tribute.

Thanks to those who were able to participate and a great time was had by all, and of course as is always the case Kara was hugely involved in proceedings and not just an enthusiastic observer.

What else,

The choir was finally able to perform the Puccini Messa di Gloria and the Brahms Alto Rhapsody. You’re all aware I always like to tackle “The Big Stuff”, but after all the usual cajoling and statements such as great , marvellous, you’re doing really well we put on two really good performances at Morra Hall in March. A big thank you to all concerned including soloists in particular Harriet Crampton.

Mary and I took a little break in April and May and Guest Musical Director Anne Willman  took over the choir for a Pot Pourri concert at Rocky Bay Hall.

On our return I was asked to put together an end of year concert.

While rehearsals where underway an invitation came along to take part in a 3 Choir Festival put on by Sister Shout and including Waiheke Choral and V12.

It was a huge success with a packed Morra Hall and everybody including choirs and audience having a great time.

And finally to the end of year concert.

A welcome return to St Peters and a concert of Choral Classics, a singalong Christmas Carol Selection and “finally finally finally” a public performance of Samuel Barber’s beautiful Agnus Dei. Well done everyone. Not a huge success audience wise, maybe Waiheke was all “concerted out” by then. 

Special special thanks first of all to Carolyn Smart for all her hard work through the year, to the Committee for their support, to our audiences who dutifully turn up concert after concert , to my darling wife Mary who puts up with me traipsing off every Tuesday for rehearsals but most of all to, you wonderful people who keep on coming Tuesday after Tuesday wondering what the hell I’m going to throw at you next but are always incredibly supportive and a joy to work with.

All the best, love you heaps, stay well and see you soon.