Contributed
Suzanne Williams
On Tuesday, a full house attended an outstanding concert at the Church of St George and St John, given by the Swiss choir, Consonus Vokalensemble.
It was on tour after competing at the World Choir Games in Auckland, brought here by the Rotary Club, and has a special connection with Whakatāne, as the choirmaster, Mauro Ursprung, has taken part in the Rotary Exchange program and stayed here in the early 2000s.
The choir has gained two gold medals in different classes and is of a rare quality.
What a pleasure and a treat it was for us all, as was shown by the enthusiasm of the crowd. At one time it was more reminiscent of a rock show than a choral performance, but always perfectly executed.
It seemed to have a very happy rapport with its conductor with several different moods displayed over the varied pieces and countries included, with German, Italian, English (not French, surprisingly) spoken.
Of course, yodelling featured in two pieces in an unexpectedly muted, restrained way. Yet the choir achieved also a wonderful volume in those compositions calling for it. The William Tell Overture was a delight, as was the other one that I knew, a song from Coldplay.
Above all, the evening was full of fun; joyful and vibrant, leaving the audience happy.
Unfortunately for me and some others with hearing issues, there was one problem with the evening: as no microphone was used, I could not hear the introductions to the different pieces, which would not have mattered had there been a programme supplied.
So, I hope my statements here are reasonably accurate. Thank you, Warner, for your help.
An amazing night to be remembered. Thank you, Whakatāne Rotary Club; we are so lucky to be able to have them here.