GLORY in Kāpiti and Carterton
Orpheus Scholars Lily Richardson and Eve Parker-Groves with Assistant Conductor Stephen Clothier
In May and June, Orpheus Choir Wellington took GLORY beyond Wellington, performing to two sold-out audiences in Carterton and Kāpiti.
These concerts are a special opportunity for us as a city-based choir to share the warmth, brightness and energy of choral music with communities across the wider region. They are also a chance to connect with audiences in a more intimate way outside our usual large-scale symphonic settings.
One half of the programme was Vivaldi’s much-loved Gloria, a work full of radiance, contrast and vitality. Its joyful opening and spirited choruses made it a beautiful first half for these performances, and was conducted by Assistant Conductor Stephen Clothier. The second half brought Mozart Requiem to the fore, with depth, drama and emotional intensity; one of the great choral masterpieces. This was conducted by Orpheus’s Music Director Brent Stewart.
One of the great highlights of GLORY was the opportunity to feature our Orpheus scholars as soloists. These emerging singers brought poise, freshness and real musical generosity to the stage, and it was a proud moment for the choir to see them step forward with such confidence. In Carterton, the audience was treated to a surprise when our much-loved Vice Patron, Margaret Medlyn, graciously stepped into the alto role. Margaret’s warmth, artistry and unmistakable presence brought something special to the performance, and her contribution was warmly received by audiences and choir alike.
We were also delighted to be joined by the superb young pianist Otis Prescott-Mason, whose accompaniment brought sensitivity, colour and energy to the performances. Otis is an exciting young musician, and it was a privilege to share these concerts with him. We wish him well as he prepares to head to the prestigious Yale School of Music to begin his Master of Music studies under Professor Boris Berman.
Performing in both Carterton and Kāpiti reminded us how much choral music can mean when it is shared across communities. The response from audiences was generous and heartfelt, and we are grateful to everyone who joined us, supported us and helped make these concerts possible.
Thank you to our singers, soloists, artistic team, volunteers, supporters and audiences for helping make GLORY such a memorable part of our 2026 season.
