Brent talks Colossal Chorale
We caught up with conductor, Brent Stewart, ahead of Orpheus’ Colossal Chorale On Tour concerts in Kāpiti and Carterton. With 150 singers, a blockbuster programme, and more travel than usual, Brent explains why he’s calling this the year of the choir road trip.
You’re taking Orpheus Choir Wellington on tour with your Colossal Chorale on tour series. What can audiences expect from these concerts?
“A lot of voices, a lot of drama, and a lot of fun. We are bringing some absolute choral bangers to Kāpiti and Carterton. There are moments that are big and bold, like O Fortuna and Hallelujah, and then pieces that are gentle and gorgeous, like Shenandoah and Sure On This Shining Night. We have classics, folk songs, and even a bit of Dave Dobbyn. It is a proper musical road trip, all in one concert. And our performance of Chichester Psalms is something really special.”
Tell us more about Chichester Psalms. Why did you choose it?
“It is such a wild and beautiful piece. Bernstein throws all sorts of surprises in there with shifting rhythms, lush harmonies, and sudden changes in mood. One minute it is gentle and lyrical, and the next it is full of rhythmic punch. It really keeps you on your toes, and the choir loves that kind of challenge. It also features some lovely solo moments, which our scholars are performing. They bring such colour and sensitivity to it.”
You’re performing it with two pianos and percussion instead of an orchestra. How does that work?
“It works incredibly well. The two pianos and percussion give it this crisp, edgy sound that lets all the detail shine through. You hear every twist and turn in the music. It is leaner than the full orchestral version, but still completely thrilling. In some ways, it feels even more immediate. You can really feel the impact of every rhythm and texture.”
This tour takes you out of the Michael Fowler Centre and into new territory. How does that feel?
“I love it. We are so used to singing in big concert halls with a full orchestra, but this tour is all about making that big choral sound work in more intimate spaces. The programme has been designed so we can still bring that Orpheus energy without needing an entire orchestra. We are taking about 150 singers with us, so it will still be epic. And I have to say, the drive up the coast and over the hill is beautiful. Plus, we all know the weather is usually much better in Kāpiti and Carterton. This year really does feel like the year of the road trip. We are off to Auckland in October for Carmina Burana, just a week after Auckland Choral comes down to do it with us in Wellington. Our singers are up for anything.”
Tell us about your soloists. Who are they?
“We are featuring our Orpheus scholars in Chichester Psalms, Laudate Dominum, and The Heavens Are Telling. They are seriously talented and bring such personality to each piece. It is a great chance for them to step into the spotlight, and it gives the audience a chance to hear some rising stars up close.”
This programme covers a lot of musical ground. How did you choose it?
“I wanted it to feel like a greatest hits concert for choral lovers. There is something majestic, something moving, and something joyful around every corner. We have music by Mozart and Haydn, but also folk songs from all over and a few modern gems. It is all about variety and showing what a choir of this size and talent can do. We love mixing it up and giving the audience a bit of everything.”
Why should people come along?
“Because live choral music is something you feel in your bones. There is nothing quite like being in the room with that wall of sound. Whether you are a seasoned concertgoer or just curious to try something new, this show will have something for you. It is moving, uplifting, and just really fun to be part of. And how often do you get 150 singers turning up in your neighbourhood?”