Video recordings of items from the Gisborne Singers' performances of Rossini's Petit Messe Solonnelle and Jenkin's The Armed Man are now available on YouTube. You can find links to them on our Recording's page.

This program opened with the iconic suspense of Zadok the Priest, before elegant renditions of the other coronation anthems. The Singers tackled the difficulties of singing Handel convincingly: the required breath control, and his inspired but sometimes awkward text. Amongst the soloists, soprano Lee Abrahamsen stood out for her outstanding projection and clarity in a less-than-ideal acoustic environment. 

The Beethoven Mass in C is full of pathos and pity for the plight of human beings. It was received badly upon its first performance in 1807 and remains one of his lesser-performed major works. However, this performance honoured and captured its eccentricities, its melancholy and its energetic triumphalism. The Agnus Dei in particular was beautifully plaintive. The Mass is now regarded as an underrated masterpiece. 

The orchestra was a joy, with flawless intonation, and an even elegance throughout. 
It was also great to see the program acknowledge in detail the history, experience, and valued contribution of accompanist, Alan Grinton. 

Conductor Stephen Brockman continues to find a balance between the familiar and unfamiliar in extending both the Singers and the public.

Following their outstanding performances in Ballarat and Woodend of Karl Jenkins' Armed Man - A Mass for Peace, the Gisborne Singers have been invited to New York's Carnegie Hall to join choirs from around the world to sing his latest work in January 2017.

An opportunity exists to hear the Gisborne Singers harmonious voices during their current season.  Esteemed conductor Stephen Brockman will lead The Singers in performances of Beethoven's Mass in C and Handel's Coronation Anthems. Supported by full orchestra, the concerts will feature soloists Lee Abrahmsen, Karen Van Spall, Robert Barbaro and Timothy Newton.  

Performances will be at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, Eden Street, Kyneton at 3pm on Sunday May 15 and at Barcham Theatre, Gisborne Secondary College at 3pm on Sunday May 22.

Afternoon tea is included with a ticket of $40, $35 concession, $20 students, Under 12 free.  Bookings at http://www.gisbornesingers.org.au  or 0413003254