Role

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Ensemble

 

TOWER Voices New Zealand is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1998. The group is based in Auckland, New Zealand, and is known for its exceptional performances of choral music from around the world. The ensemble has gained a reputation for its unique sound and innovative programming, and has become one of the most respected choral groups in the country. The founding of TOWER Voices New Zealand was the result of a collaboration between two prominent figures in the New Zealand music scene: conductor Karen Grylls and composer John Psathas. Grylls had already established herself as a leading choral conductor in the country, having founded the New Zealand Youth Choir in 1979 and the Voices New Zealand Chamber Choir in 1998. Psathas, on the other hand, was a rising star in the world of contemporary classical music, having gained international recognition for his innovative compositions. The two musicians shared a vision of creating a new choral ensemble that would showcase the best of both traditional and contemporary choral music. They approached the TOWER Insurance Group, a major sponsor of the arts in New Zealand, with their proposal, and the company agreed to provide funding for the new group. Thus, TOWER Voices New Zealand was born. The ensemble's first performance took place in 1998, and was met with critical acclaim. The group's unique sound, which blended the precision and discipline of traditional choral singing with the energy and creativity of contemporary music, was immediately apparent. The ensemble quickly gained a following, and began to perform regularly throughout New Zealand and abroad. Over the years, TOWER Voices New Zealand has undergone several changes in membership, but has always maintained a high standard of excellence. The group's current members are all accomplished musicians in their own right, and bring a wealth of experience and talent to the ensemble. The group's current conductor is Michael Stewart, who took over from Karen Grylls in 2015. One of the highlights of TOWER Voices New Zealand's career was its performance at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The group was invited to perform at the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games, and its rendition of the New Zealand national anthem was widely praised. The group also performed at the closing ceremony of the Games, where it sang a specially commissioned piece by John Psathas. Another notable performance by TOWER Voices New Zealand was its collaboration with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in 2006. The two groups performed a program of works by New Zealand composers, including Psathas, Gareth Farr, and Ross Harris. The concert was a critical and commercial success, and helped to raise the profile of both groups. TOWER Voices New Zealand has also been recognized for its recordings. The group's debut album, "TOWER Voices New Zealand," was released in 2000, and received widespread acclaim. The album featured a mix of traditional and contemporary choral music, and showcased the group's versatility and range. The group has since released several more albums, including "Aotearoa," which featured works by New Zealand composers, and "Lux Aeterna," which focused on sacred choral music. In addition to its performances and recordings, TOWER Voices New Zealand has also been involved in a number of educational and outreach programs.

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