The regular Annual Choir School held in Wellington during 2022 is always a highlight in the lives of choristers, especially those of younger years.
held at Wellington Branch
The Wellington Branch of RSCMNZ held this year’s (2022) annual choir school on 26 and 27 September at St James’ Church in Lower Hutt. Attending were 34 choristers from all over NZ; from Nelson, Wellington, Masterton, Palmerston North, Marton, and Auckland, with ages from 8 to 16 years. The choristers worked towards a service presented on the Tuesday at 5pm to an appreciative congregation. This service was based around the gifts of the Holy Spirit, with readings based on a festival service book and anthems chosen by the director.
It was ably directed by Michael Stewart, Director of Music at Wellington’s Anglican Cathedral of St Paul with tutorial assistance from Heather Easting, Director of Music at St James’ Church, Helen Willberg (St James’ Church) and Roy Tankersley, Director of Music at St Andrew’s in the City (of) Palmerston North (and branch chair). Chaplain was Rev. Alison Stewart, who is also branch chaplain & RSCMNZ Inc. National Secretary (Minutes). Many historic awards are made at the school: the Copperwheat Cup for girls aged 11-14, won by: Anna Bebbington; sight reading awards sponsored by Anita Banbury of Auckland, won by Antonia Averes, Elizabeth Barrell, and Anastasia Reid; and special choir school awards for older singers for general excellence, won by: Anne Amber and Sidney Barron.