Orb and Sceptre Review

What:            Orb and Sceptre
Where:         Wellington Cathedral of St Paul, 

When:          19 September 2007
Reviewer:    Garth Wilshere, Capital Times

The theme of this concert was coronation music, so it was appropriate to perform in the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul. But with the choir in the middle of the cathedral, there is no solid surface to focus and help project the sound. However when the whole choir was in full voice there were many splendid moments. Walton's Coronation Te Deum had strength, and Jerusalem was stirring.

The second half of the programme was devoted to Sir Edward Elgar, opening with his arrangement of God Save The King. The major work was Coronation Ode Op 44, written in 1902 for Edward VII. It is full of the pomp and circumstance you would expect. This performance utilising the organ – the excellent Max Kenworthy – and the New Zealand Brass was fine, although the full orchestra was occasionally missed. The choir relished the big majestic moments.

Of the soloists soprano Janey MacKenzie stood out for her vibrant, bright tone and excellent performance. All the musical forces were well prepared by conductor Michael Fulcher, who frequently got exhilarating performances.