Chris Bruerton Workshops impress

29 Sept 2026

Another two successful Regional Workshops occurred in Te Waipounamu last month. Chris Bruerton took singers in Dunedin and Invercargill into the world of an a cappella group in a workshop titled The King’s Singers playbook. After 14 years singing in the internationally acclaimed British a cappella ensemble The King’s Singers and a background in teaching, Chris was the perfect person to introduce the techniques and philosophy of that world.

Otago Workshop 1 Thirty-four singers participated in an unfortunately cold Knox Presbyterian Church in Dunedin on Saturday 12 September, and the following day 46 people gathered at Southland Girls' High School in Invercargill.

Chris led the participants through practical exercises, gave tips and advice on blending voices, learning music and holding a room. And there were plenty of good stories about his time on the road with the King’s Singers and insights into the demands of a professional career.

Participants at both workshops commented on how much they enjoyed their afternoon, enjoyed Chris’s positive energy and generosity, and were excited by the amount they had learned. Chris was described as being talented, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, entertaining, inclusive and an excellent teacher. Many useful tips and practices were learned that the participants were sure they would use in their own rehearsals and performances.

Take-away points included:

· Ears are the most important part of singing – use them always
· Turn up on time. Be prepared and be likeable.
· Be open to try new things.
· Graffiti your music with notes to remind you of what to emphasis or the energy to project.
· Practice sight-reading and learn all the other parts.

And what did participant like about their workshop?

“Loved learning ways to introduce colour and different tonal qualities to voices using imagery and adjectives to produce the emotional landscape”

“Great to be pushed out of our comfort zones, but in a kind & supportive way. Great tips to take back to school and use in the classroom."

"Everything! Over my long life, I have worked with outstanding conductors in UK, USA and Aotearoa - this Workshop was right up there with the best."

The general consensus was that Chris was a fantastic presenter, that an afternoon was too short and that participants would readily welcome him back for another session.

Thanks, Chris, for your enthusiasm and energy, and many thanks to coordinators, Anna MacKenzie in Otago and Sarah Rae in Southland and their teams of volunteers for making these events so successful.

Regional Workshops coming up (click on title for more information and to register)

Saturday 10 October – Manawatū-Whanganui in Marton - Sing music from Tinā! with Igelese Ete

Sunday 15 November – Canterbury-West Coast in Christchurch – Sing music from Tinā! with Igelese Ete and David Squire

Saturday 5 December – Hawke’s-Bay in Napier - Viagra for Voice with Judy Bellingham

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