Experience the magic of the season with SOUNDS OF SPLENDOUR 💫 — a Christmas concert featuring timeless classics as well as works by living composers, presented by the Hamilton Civic Choir.

As the last concert in the Hamilton Civic Choir’s 2025 season, Sounds of Splendour is a celebration of the festive season. Under the direction of conductor Elise Bradley, this performance brings the year to a close with music that captures the joy, reverence, and splendour of Christmas. From the text of ancient carols to contemporary masterpieces, the programme invites audiences into a musical experience of seasonal warmth.

The concert centers around the 🔸Southern Hemisphere premiere🔸 of Bob Chilcott’s moving multi-work Mary, Mother, a sequence of six carols that explores the role of Mary in the Christmas story and focuses on her human experience within a story of the divine. Other highlights of the evening include J.S. Bach’s jubilant Jauchzet, Frohlocket, and Handel’s iconic And the Glory of the Lord. The programme also features Eleanor Daley’s flowing Angelus ad Virginem, David N. Childs’ transcendent O Nata Lux, and Dan Forrest’s tender In the Bleak Midwinter. Adding festive flair and international colour are Cristian Grases’ joyful Mi Burrito Sabanero and John Rutter’s beloved Angels’ Carol.

Audiences will be treated to the musical artistry from the choir’s very own collaborative pianist Francis Cowan, as well as guest musicians such as Auckland-based organist Soomin Kim, NZSO former principal harpist Anna Christensen, Auckland Youth Orchestra principal cellist Damon Herlihy-O'Brien, and Hamilton’s own well-loved trumpeter Bill Stoneham. We are also honoured to welcome guest conductor Dr. Karen Grylls to the podium.

Support your local performing arts and join us for SOUNDS OF SPLENDOUR — let your spirit be lifted by the sounds of the season! 🎄