Music lovers are in for an afternoon of elegance and emotion when Music Whakatāne opens its 2026 season with a performance by Baroque ensemble Affetto.

Titled Roses and Thorns for the Soul, the programme weaves together music of celebration and contemplation, performed by guest soprano Rowena Simpson alongside Affetto regulars Peter Reid (cornetto and Baroque trumpet), Polly Sussex (viols and Baroque cello) and Rachael Griffiths-Hughes (organ and harpsichord).

Audiences can expect a mix of well-loved favourites and lesser-known gems from the Baroque era.

Highlights include George Frideric Handel’s uplifting Let the Bright Seraphim and the transcendent Eternal Source of Light Divine, as well as Jeremiah Clarke’s popular Trumpet Voluntary.

Works by Telemann, Keiser, Caldara, Cima and Purcell will also feature, offering a rich and varied exploration of 17th- and 18th-century music.

The ensemble’s sound is enhanced by its use of period instruments.

The Baroque cello dates from 1777, while the Baroque trumpet was handmade in the Netherlands in 2020. Rachael Griffiths-Hughes’ sensitive and improvisatory accompaniment on organ and harpsichord complements Rowena Simpson’s expressive soprano, creating a performance style that is authentic and engaging.

Affetto will also perform in Hamilton and Tauranga as part of its regional tour.

The concert will be held on Saturday, February 28 at 2pm at the Church of St George & St John, 30 Domain Road, Whakatāne.

Concertgoers keen to make a full day of live music should note that the performance falls on the same afternoon as Jazz in the Park. With the jazz event running from 3pm to 8pm, organisers point out that it is possible to attend both.

Affetto
■ Where: Church of St George &St John
■ When: 2pm, Saturday, February 28
■ Tickets: trybooking.com, door sales or at The Good Life (cash only)