Music lovers are in for a classical surprise as acclaimed Edgecumbe Choir prepares to present Mostly Mozart – a concert showcasing the timeless choral works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Franz Joseph Haydn.

This carefully curated programme features Mozart’s joyful Coronation Mass and the uplifting Exultate Jubilate, alongside Haydn’s serene Salve Regina.

The performance will highlight an impressive line-up of soloists: alto Laura Funaki, bass Henry Shum, tenor Nigel Drake, and soprano Elizabeth Mandeno. The choir will be led by its dynamic and engaging musical director, Chalium Poppy.

“These works are a representation of humanity’s outstanding musical and artistic achievement,” said Poppy, who curated the programme.

Explaining his choice of repertoire, Poppy said: “The Classical era, in the eighteenth century, was a beautiful time for music. Music had an elegance and gracefulness to it that we don’t see in either the Romantic or Baroque periods.

“The choir has always performed music from this era very well. Last year, our concert of Haydn’s Creation was hugely popular, so I wanted to bring another classical programme this year.”

Poppy said he was especially thrilled to welcome back soprano Elizabeth Mandeno from Auckland.

“I actually planned the programme around Elizabeth,” he said. “She really stole the show last year with her performance as Eve in The Creation. She delighted the audience – she’s an incredible singer and actress.”

Mozart’s Coronation Mass, composed in 1779, particularly favours the soprano soloist, Poppy said.

“One of the reasons I chose this work is for the stunning Agnus Dei, sung by the soprano. It’s the prototype for Mozart’s famous aria Dove sono from The Marriage of Figaro, which many people will recognise.”

Complementing this is Exultate Jubilate, composed in 1773 – a virtuosic showcase for the soprano voice that concludes with the famous third movement, Alleluia.

“People love it,” said Poppy. “It’s virtuosic and incredibly difficult to sing, but stunning. I really wanted that on the programme, too.”

In honour of another Classical giant, Poppy also selected Haydn’s Salve Regina, noting the brilliance of its accompaniment – a perfect opportunity to feature guest organist Jeremy Woodside, who is travelling from Christchurch for the performance.

“Jeremy is a genius player, and I wanted to include a piece that showcases this.”

Although Salve Regina is beautiful chorally, the accompaniment really stood out, he said.

“It’s creative, experimental, and Haydn is really pushing the boundaries.”

Woodside is no stranger to the Edgecumbe Choir and has previously performed with the ensemble.

“I’m sure the accompaniment to Salve Regina will steal the show,” Poppy said.

Poppy said people enjoyed the Classical era of music.

“Mozart’s music is so accessible. It is elegant and beautiful. Mozart can be considered the father of the musical phrase. His phrases can be just two or three notes, yet they are incredibly beautiful – and that’s part of his genius.”

Poppy praised the Edgecumbe Choir for its commitment to excellence.

“The creative process that is choral music does not occur overnight.  I appreciate this about the Edgecumbe Choir – they possess a desire to do things well – to constantly improve and strive for excellence in all the music they perform. They don’t back away from the challenge of rehearsal.”

Edgecumbe Choir's Mostly Mozart
* Where: Church of St George and St John, Domain Road, Whakatāne
* When: Saturday, May 24 at 4pm and Sunday, May 25 at 2pm
* Tickets: Adults $35, children (u18) $5, via www.edgecumbechoir.org/buy-tickets, The Good Life, 150 The Strand, door sales. Early bird discount for tickets purchase before May 17.