Orpheus in Rarohenga (soprano, tenor, baritone, choir, orchestra) with Robert Sullivan

A joint commission from myself and New Zealand poet Robert Sullivan to mark the 50th anniversary of the Orpheus Choir of Wellington resulted in this major oratorio. The subject matter is Captain James Cook’s 1769 voyage to the Southern Hemisphere, ostensibly to view the Transit of Venus but which also resulted in the European discovery of the islands of New Zealand. This voyage, and its resulting historical ramifications, are literally merged with the journey by the mythical figure of Orpheus to the Underworld.The premiere performance took place on November 23, 2002, featuring Jenny Wollerman, Richard Greager, David Griffiths, the Orpheus Choir of Wellington, and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra conducted by Andrew Cantrill. The commission for this oratorio was made possible with financial support from Creative New Zealand and the Lion Foundation.

Full Instrumentation

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Soprano, Tenor, Baritone soli

Choir (SSAATTBB)

3 Flute (dbl pic)
3 Oboe (dbl ca)
3 Clarinet (dbl bcl)
2 Bassoon
Contrabassoon

4 Horn
3 Trumpet
2 Trombone
Bass Trombone
Tuba

Timp
5 Percussion

Harp
Piano (dbl celeste)
Organ

Strings
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Resources

RESEARCHERS: EXPLORE ORPHEUS IN RAROHENGA: ORATORIO SOLO SOPRANO, TENOR, BARITONE, CHOIR, AND ORCHESTRA AT THE ALEXANDER TURNBULL LIBRARY

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