2025 Concerts
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12th April - The Armed Man: A Mass for PeaceThe Armed Man: A Mass for Peace by Sir Karl Jenkins is a powerful and moving choral work that combines elements of the traditional mass with diverse musical influences from around the world. Originally composed as a call for peace, it poignantly reflects on the horrors of war and the hope for harmony. In 2024, New Zealand audiences voted The Armed Man their favourite classical work, solidifying its place as a beloved and impactful piece within the country’s musical landscape. Its emotive and accessible style continues to captivate listeners, resonating deeply with themes of peace and reconciliation.
Our performance will also include a selection of pieces to further explore peace while showcase our collaborators: the Rangiora RSA Club Brass Band and Martin Setchell on the Christchurch Town Hall Organ. |
2024 Concerts
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7th December - Handel's MessiahChristchurch City Choir returns to the Christchurch Town Hall for Handel’s Messiah, conducted by Dr John Linker and accompanied by the CSO.
A perennial favourite in the concert calendar, Messiah signals that Christmas is on its way. Joyful, majestic and uplifting. Opera soloists, organ, harpsichord, orchestra and choir unite to tell the story of the Messiah. We're excited to feature the following soloists in 2024: Soprano - Sarah-Jane Rennie; Mezzo Soprano - Catrin Johnsson; Tenor - Patrick Power ONZM; Bass - Samuel McKeever Presented with support from: Cuningham Taylor Law, Mitre 10 Mega Ferrymead, Aotearoa Gaming Trust, NZCT |
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9th November - Proms with a Highland TwistCSO’s iconic Proms is an event that local audiences have loved attending for decades, and it's back in 2024 with a Highland twist!
The fun variety-show format has something for everyone – from the much-loved singalong classics of the annual BBC Last Night of the Proms at London’s Royal Albert Hall, through to orchestral works from closer to home. Proms is always a true community event, with an appearance from longtime collaborator The Christchurch City Choir. The famously informal party atmosphere makes it the perfect introduction to the orchestra, to invite those who might be curious about CSO. Enjoy the fanfare and frivolity of Proms, reinvented with the spirit of today – a hearty celebration of the rich musical traditions of Ōtautahi Christchurch! In association with Runacres Insurance |
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3rd August - Will Todd's Mass in BlueMass in Blue by Will Todd is a contemporary fusion of the traditional Latin Mass with elements of jazz and blues. Composed in 2003, it showcases Todd's innovative approach to choral music, featuring lively rhythms, soulful melodies, and improvisational sections reminiscent of jazz clubs. The piece seamlessly blends sacred and secular elements, offering a fresh and dynamic interpretation of the Mass, while also inviting audiences to engage with its vibrant and accessible musical language.
The Christchurch City Choir’s performance of Mass in Blue will be conducted by Dr John Linker, featuring Helen Charlton, soprano and accompanied by a jazz trio comprising Jeremy Woodside on keys, Michael Story on bass and Douglas Brush on drums. | ||
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8th June - Bernstein's Chichester PsalmsWith Director of Music, John Linker conducting, the Christchurch City Choir’s second concert of the year features Jeremy Woodside (organ), Hamish Dark (treble), Helen Webby (harp) and Ciaran Wright (percussion).
Leonard Bernstein began writing the 3 movement work in 1963, in response to a request for a work to feature in the Chichester Cathedral’s Music Festival two years later. While adhering to the norms of choral Church music, Bernstein used only Hebrew text and so was able to use the melodic and rhythmic contours of the Hebrew language to dictate mood and melodic character. The contrasts in mood vary from the fiery Psalm 2 “Why do the nations rage?” to the peace and tranquility of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd”. Here Bernstein’s use of harp accompaniment, (played by Helen Webby), is a musical evocation of King David, the shepherd-psalmist. Chichester Psalms is tuneful, tonal and contemporary, featuring modal melodies and unusual meters. From the time of its sold-out world premiere at Philharmonic Hall on July 15, 1965 conducted by the composer himself, it was apparent that Bernstein had created a magically unique blend of Biblical Hebrew verse and Christian choral tradition; a musical depiction of the composer’s hope for brotherhood and peace. Other Psalms performed will include Mozart's Laudate Dominum (Psalm 117), Brahms' How Lovely are thy Dwellings (Psalm 84), Elgar's Great is the Lord, (Psalm 48), Vaughan Williams' O Clap your Hands (Psalm 47), Purcell's I was Glad (Psalm 122), Bloch's Psalm 19 and Mathias' Psalm 100 for organ. | ||
2023 Concerts
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2nd December - Handel's MessiahFresh from their acclaimed performance of Brahms' German Requiem, and participation in the “Last Night of the Proms”, Christchurch City Choir are thrilled to be presenting the perennial favourite, Handel’s Messiah, on Saturday, 2 December in the Christchurch Town Hall, beginning at 7.30 p.m.
The choir will be conducted by Dr John Linker, accompanied by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and the performance will feature soloists Elisabeth Harris, Helen Charlton, Jared Holt and Joel Amosa, with Jeremy Woodside on organ. |
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19th August - Brahms' A German RequiemExperience the power and beauty of one of the greatest choral works of all time. The Christchurch City Choir with City Choir Dunedin and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra are proud to present Brahms' German Requiem, a masterpiece that has stood the test of time.
This emotional and uplifting work, composed by Johannes Brahms in the mid-1800s, is a moving tribute to the departed and a source of solace for the living. With its soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and poignant lyrics, the German Requiem is an unforgettable musical journey that will stir your soul and leave you with a sense of hope and renewal. Under the direction of a skilled conductor and with the powerful voices of the Christchurch City Choir, accompanied by the talented musicians of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, this performance promises to be a night to remember. Don't miss your chance to experience Brahms' German Requiem in all its glory, at the Christchurch Town Hall on August 19, 2023, at 7:30 pm. |
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13th May - A Celebration for Mother's DayThe Christchurch City Choir and Christchurch Youth Choir join forces for a spectacular choral celebration, accompanied by a chamber orchestra of talented local musicians, in celebration of Mother's Day. The highlight of the concert will be Rutter’s 'Magnificat', a stunning composition that blends classical and contemporary elements to create a truly breathtaking musical experience. With soaring melodies, lush harmonies, and powerful vocals, this work promises to be a fitting tribute to our incredible mothers. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music!
Transitional Cathedral 7pm, 13th May 2023. |
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18th March - Stainer's CrucifixionCome and Sing
Be a part of something great and create friendships along the way. In a busy life song is so often forgotten. Here’s to reaching out to a past love of music and to being a part of something bigger than yourself. Being a part of the Christchurch City Choir an opportunity to sing wonderful music in a friendly professional environment with musical camaraderie. Workshop and rehearsals 10am-3.00pm, 18 March 2023. Come and Watch Come to the concert at 3pm, 18 March 2023 in the beautifully restored St Peter's Church in Upper Riccarton with Christchurch City Choir, Rieger organ, soloists, and guest performers. Soloists The Choir will be joined by Organist Jeremy Woodside and local soloists Adrian Lowe and Matthew Harris. |
2022 Concerts
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3rd December - Handel's MessiahChristchurch City Choir returns to the Christchurch Town Hall with our annual performance of Handel’s Messiah, conducted by Dr John Linker and accompanied by the CSO. A perennial favourite in the concert calendar, Messiah signals that Christmas is on its way. Joyful, majestic and uplifting. Opera soloists, organ, harpsichord, orchestra and choir unite to tell the story of the Messiah.
Soloists are NZ based international Soprano Madeleine Pierard, Alto Leisa Falconer, Tenor Andrew Grenon and Bass James Ioelu. Principal Sponsor Cuningham Taylor Law Concert Sponsors South Island Heart and Mitre 10 Mega Ferrymead With support from Kiwi Gaming Foundation, Aotearoa Gaming Trust, Mainland Foundation. |
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24th September - Majesty: Music for Royal OccasionsWe sing this concert in memory of and thanksgiving for the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and also in celebration of the commencement of the reign of His Majesty King Charles III. This programme features music intended for use at a variety of royal occasions, from coronations, to funerals, to private devotions.
We welcome soloists Katherine Doig, Adrian Lowe, Alex Robinson, and Christopher Warwick, Christchurch City Choir’s accompanist Jeremy Woodside alongside trumpeters Thomas Eves and Lena Krakowiak. Featuring music by CHH Parry, Henry Purcell, Willian Byrd, Edward Elgar, GF Handel, William Walton and WA Mozart. Transitional Cathedral, 7pm Saturday 24 September 2022 |
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25th June - A Night at the OperaChristchurch City Choir with soloists Deborah Wai Kapohe, Sarah-Jane Rennie and Oliver Sewell.
The Piano 7pm-9.30pm We hope you can join us to celebrate performing again and enjoy an evening of your favourite opera choruses sung by the Christchurch City Choir and your favourite arias sung by three world class opera singers with Jeremy Woodside on piano. Conductor Dr John Linker. Programme featuring selections by: LEONCAVALLO PURCELL PUCCINI BIZET VERDI WAGNER DONIZETTI ROSSINI MOZART Gillian WHITEHEAD GERSHWIN BERNSTEIN |
2021 Concerts
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4th December - Handel's Messiah ChorusesAfter sadly cancelling our Annual Messiah at Christchurch Town Hall Concert with Sponsors John Rhind Funeral Director and Cunningham Taylor Law by popular demand we bring you Handel's Messiah Choruses with Narration by Eilish Moran. This is a special opportunity for friends, family and supporters to welcome the festive season. With strictly limited capacity you must book early. This concert is being made possible with support from Christchurch City Creative NZ Communities.
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3rd July - Voices FoundConductor Dr John Linker has selected music that represents some of the finest works in the repertoire by female composers for Christchurch City Choir as they perform for the first time in the beautiful chapel at St Andrew's College and featuring tenor Oliver Sewell and Organist/Pianist Jeremy Woodside. Join us to celebrate our 30th Anniversary Year.
Conductor Dr John Linker 3 July 2021, 6.30pm St Andrew's College Chapel (Normans Rd, ChCh) Concert Sponsor: Ryman Healthcare With generous support from the Roy Owen Dixey Trust and CNZ Creative Communities |
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27th March - Changing SeasonsAs autumn’s seasonal change brings about warmer colours outdoors, enjoy a cosy evening inside with us at the recently opened Aldersgate Centre.
Christchurch City Choir along with conductor Dr John Linker, organist Jeremy Woodside and members of Addington Brass join to celebrate the work of Haydn, Beethoven, Shearing, and Rutter as part of the Choir’s 30th Anniversary year. Works featured include Rutter’s Gloria, movements from The Seasons by Haydn, Beethoven’s Hallelujah (from Christ on the Mount of Olives) and Shearing’s setting of Songs and Sonnets of Shakespeare. Changing Seasons has received funding from The Southern Trust. |
2020 Concerts
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12th December - Messiah2020 featured soloists: Auckland soprano Anna Pierard, NZ based Swedish mezzo-soprano Catrin Johnsson, NZ international tenor Oliver Sewell and US based bass-baritone Paul Whelan. Jeremy Woodside on Organ and Grant Bartley on Harpsichord.
Principal Sponsor: Cuningham Taylor Law Concert Sponsor: John Rhind Funerals Key Funders: Mainland Foundation, Pub Charity, Christchurch City Council |
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25th July - Looking Back, Moving ForwardChristchurch City Choir with Lois Johnston (Soprano), Malcolm Leitch (Baritone) and Jeremy Woodside (Organ) presents an evening of reflective music. Singing Requiem, Opus 48 [Gabriel Fauré] and and other works for choir and organ, conducted by Dr John Linker in the beautiful Transitional Cathedral, this will be an evening not to be missed.
Looking back on our COVID-19 journey so far, remembering those we lost and looking forward to what the future holds. Join us for 60 minutes of music and contemplation. Entry is by koha but seats are limited so secure your tickets at Eventfinda. |
2019 Concerts
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7th December - MessiahIn the Christchurch Town Hall for the first time since 2011.
Conductor - Dr John Linker with the Christchurch Youth Choir, CSO, Martin Setchell and Grant Bartley Soprano - Deborah Wai Kapohe Mezzo - Elisabeth Harris Tenor - Jared Holt (Messiah tenor debut) Bass - Martin Snell |
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29th June - Antarctic Spirit |
2018 Concerts
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2017 Concerts
2016 Concerts
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10th September - Timaru ConcertSacred Heart Basilica, Timaru
John Linker conducted the choir and played organ in an intimate afternoon concert in Timaru to an apreciative audience, some of who came on the road trip with the choir and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of hearing the choir in the wonderful acoustic. Programme: Bach - Cantata No.80 Vierne - Messe Solennelle Shearing - Songs and Sonnets |
2015 Concerts
15th November - WWI Commemoration
Air Force Museum of NZ, Wigram
Canterbury Anniversary weekend saw the choir premiere a specially commissioned piece at a free concert at the Air Force Museum at Wigram. The choir and Addington Brass joined together to perform the world premiere of ‘Pro Patria’, a work for choir and brass band composed by Dr. Philip Norman. The commemorative work used texts from WWI poetry and was commissioned with a grant from the Lottery Grants Board WW100 Fund.
The concert was well attended and the enthusiastic crowd joined us in a sing-along of WWI patriotic songs, as well as hearing other music performed by Addington Brass and the choir.
Canterbury Anniversary weekend saw the choir premiere a specially commissioned piece at a free concert at the Air Force Museum at Wigram. The choir and Addington Brass joined together to perform the world premiere of ‘Pro Patria’, a work for choir and brass band composed by Dr. Philip Norman. The commemorative work used texts from WWI poetry and was commissioned with a grant from the Lottery Grants Board WW100 Fund.
The concert was well attended and the enthusiastic crowd joined us in a sing-along of WWI patriotic songs, as well as hearing other music performed by Addington Brass and the choir.
3rd October - War Requiem
Air Force Museum of NZ, Wigram
Presented by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in association with the Christchurch City Choir, Britten's War Reqiuem is a work of profound emotional and moral depth that has become regarded as one of the great choral works of the 20th century.
Featuring Morag Atchison, Christopher Bowen and Jared Holt.
Presented by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in association with the Christchurch City Choir, Britten's War Reqiuem is a work of profound emotional and moral depth that has become regarded as one of the great choral works of the 20th century.
Featuring Morag Atchison, Christopher Bowen and Jared Holt.
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9th March - Faure by Candlelight |
2014 Concerts
2013 Concerts
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Sounds Syncopated
Messiah |
