My Spirit Sang All Day

$2,093 of $2,000 goal

Given by 33 generous donors in 10 days

The Graduate Choir NZ visits Waiheke Island for the first time on 20 Oct, presenting an open-rehearsal and a concert in Morra Hall, Oneroa.

Auckland

Despite the words of the well-known iconic song “I’ve been everywhere, Man!” – adapted with a Kiwi twist by John Grenell, we can only say that, regrettably, we haven’t! But we intend to get that right!

Grads has visited many areas of NZ in its 17-year history (and even made the journey to the UK) - but we have never sung on the jewel in the Hauraki Gulf, a venue right on our doorstep that sometimes gets overlooked. An inspirational suggestion to visit Waiheke Island was enthusiastically embraced by our singers and a date of the Saturday of Labour Weekend was set.

The choir, many of whom have never been to Waiheke, has planned to provide not only a recital of a range of music with something to appeal to all, but also an “open rehearsal” (a close-up look at what goes on when the choir is preparing for a public performance) which, given the thriving choral community on Waiheke, we feel sure will attract those at the chalk-face of choral music as well as interested choralists.

The Island has much to offer in terms of its beautiful attractions (including food and wine!) and the choir intends fully to enjoy local treats as much as we sincerely hope Islanders will enjoy our music.

To support the Grads' first visit to Waiheke, please consider donating $5, $25, or even $250 - every little bit truly helps!

About us

The Graduate Choir NZ is one of New Zealand’s premier mixed voice choirs. It was established in 2001 initially for school-leavers in South Auckland who wanted to keep singing with their Music Director - Terence Maskell. The name was born at the time of the choir's first performance engagement when it was pointed out that the founding members of the choir were primarily "graduates" from high school. The membership has expanded to include singers of various ethnic backgrounds and locations across Auckland and the choir is an essentially “young” demographic of around 36 singers.

Known particularly for the warmth and breadth of its sound and the unique “Aotearoa” New Zealand cultural blend of the voices, the choir performs music that ranges from early Renaissance works and the mainstream choral repertoire through to choral jazz.

A purpose of the choir is to create opportunities for audiences to share the joy and exhilaration of choral singing. Another main purpose is to provide a pathway for music, voice, choral development, and performance experiences, particularly for the young singers.

Use of funds

These funds will be used to help our choir of nearly 40 members to travel to Waiheke Island - any funds exceeding our target will assist with administrative overhead.