11 Nov 2020

Manukau Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Choral present 'Seascapes'

From Upbeat, 12:30 pm on 11 November 2020
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Photo: Supplied

For most performing musicians, 2020 has been a horror year. Even in New Zealand the Covid pandemic has led to a significant curtailment in musical activity, especially in Auckland during its second lockdown.

Uwe Grodd

Uwe Grodd Photo: Supplied

So given this, it’s a delight and a relief for two major Auckland ensembles to join together to celebrate the joy of live music-making this weekend.

The Manukau Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Choral are both conducted by one of this country’s most respected and versatile musicians, Uwe Grodd. On Saturday they’re joining forces to perform a concert of music related to the sea, and the concert includes the world première of a new work by Chris Artley.

Chris has won quite a few awards and competitions for his shorter choral pieces, and as he explains to Upbeat, relished the opportunity to compose a longer, more substantial work for full orchestra and large choir with soprano soloist.

The concert also features NZSO cellist Andrew Joyce as soloist in the Cello Concerto by Arthur Bliss.