“[A] spellbinding adaptation of a much-loved favourite…” Otago Daily Times on Re-imagined Mozart: Erebus 

Programme:
Reimagining Mozart, Robert Wiremu’s version of the Mozart Requiem 

Plus:
Komm Jesu Komm, Bach
Der Weg, Leonie Holmes
Ranginui, Takerei Komene
Kua Rongo, Wehi whanau
O Viridissima Virgo, Hildegard von Bingen 

Massed item with Voices NZ and NZ Youth Choir alumni singers

Ara Hura – A Visionary Journey celebrates Aotearoa’s most influential choral conductor, Karen Grylls. From rural beginnings to global acclaim, Grylls’ remarkable story is honoured in this gala concert. 

Voices New Zealand, the ensemble she founded and debuted at this Festival in 1998, leads the celebration, joined by taonga pūoro artist Horomona Horo, leading instrumentalists, and a chamber ensemble from the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. 

The centrepiece is Robert Wiremu’s Re-imagined Mozart: Erebus, premiered to critical acclaim two years ago. The programme also features Leonie Holmes’ Der Weg, a new commission from Takerei Komene, and waiata by Ngāpō and Pimia Wehi — highlighting Grylls’ pioneering collaborations that reshaped Aotearoa’s choral landscape. 

Don’t miss her final appearance as Music Director of Voices New Zealand — a rare chance to celebrate her vision, artistry, and legacy.