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Friday March 12th
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· The Terrace Bar: Amanda Goodwin and Joe Setefano
· Chicks Hotel: Tourettes And Jay Rocaher
· Tonic: Tono and special guest Michael Cathro
· Swell Cafe and Bar: Live Jazz at St. Clair
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09 December, 2009
Handel's Messiah - Dunedin town hall, 9/12/2009
Page 1
Handel's Messiah - Dunedin town hall, 9/12/2009
Page 1
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I was half expecting this to be local musicians having a go at Handel's Messiah in a local town hall (I'm not from Dunedin) and making a crude mess of it. But what I found was a world class quality event. The Dunedin town hall itself is a beautiful classical building and it is equally impressive on the inside. This event was therefore a combination of a classical atmosphere with brilliant music.
A reason Handel's Messiah is still played after 300 years is that there are parts that are as catchy as a Beatles song. '...and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God' is a prime example. After 300 years this music will still send a chill down your spine. I was impressed by the Soprano who was a great singer and rather attractive too, if I may say so - not a fat lady at all.
The conductor played harpsichord while conducting which I have never seen before. He at times played harpsichord with one hand and the other he used to conduct the orchestra and he didn't miss a beat. The huge choir was impressive and made the 'Hallelujah' part very powerful and spine tingling. A smaller choir wouldn't have had that effect. I felt I witnessed something special last night and hope there are more like this in the future.
By Glenn Linde
Posted by rob
