Nelson Singers: Birds and Other Wonders
- Date: 08/11/2025 19:00
- Location: Nelson Centre of Musical Arts
- Tickets: $15.00 - $47.00
Music and nature have long been intertwined, and birdsong in particular has been a source of inspiration for musicians throughout history, with composers drawing from the intricate melodies of birds to create music that reflects the beauty and majesty of the natural world.
In this concert we present music from 1570 to the present day, celebrating birds and our relationship to them; and to the celestial bodies (sun, moon and stars). At the heart of the programme is Mary Celeste’s Motet for a starling called Matisse, for chamber choir and solo starling. Written between 2020 and 2025 in Nelson, Celeste’s motet was inspired by Matisse’s own singing, and tells the story of their life together in the composer’s home.
A choir of invited singers conducted by Rosemary Galton will be joined onstage by Matisse herself, who will sing with the choir. Also featuring After the War by Nelson composer Tamsin Leenhouwers.
Performers:
Choir of invited local singers
Matisse the starling
Rosemary Galton, conductor
Anna Maitland, flute
Lissa Cowie, cello
Mary Ayre, piano and harpsichord
