Calling all singers: sing your heart out! You have a chance to be a part of the 2025 Whakatipu Music Festival.

Alongside an exceptional basket of classical talent, Artistic Director of Choirs Aotearoa – Dr. Karen Grylls is bringing the beauty of choral tradition to Queenstown.

You have the chance to undergo coaching and guidance in a choral setting from Karen Grylls and Elise Bradley (co-founder of Children’s Choral Academy) leading up to a mass choir performance on Easter Monday 21 April.  

The festival, which runs from April 18 to 21, features two dozen classical artists from around Aotearoa and further joining to celebrate their love of music.  

Featured songs include The Hallelujah Chorus, O Fortuna, and Ode to Joy. Supported by members of the National Youth Choir, you will perform alongside a live orchestra at the Queenstown Memorial Centre.  ‍

The commitment to participate is:  

Tuesday 15 April and Thursday 17 April 7pm – 9:30pm rehearsal at Te Atamira, Frankton  

Easter Monday 21 April 11:30am – 1:00pm dress rehearsal, and concert beginning at 2:00pm at Queenstown Memorial Centre (choir is on second half and finish at 4:30)  

‍There is a participation fee of $25. Music will be provided.

Every performer will receive a complimentary ticket to the event and 50% off all other festival tickets!

For the uber keen – Dr Grylls is also presenting a workshop on ‘Singing in an Ensemble’ Wednesday 16 April 5:30 – 7:00pm at Te Atamira, Frankton. Cost for attendance is $10 each and registrations for attendance are needed. Register here.

The Whakatipu Music Festival is made possible through the support of the Hill Family Foundation for Arts and Music and is presented once every three years. This opportunity for development within a hybrid professional setting will not come again until 2028.

For festival details and links to other workshops visit our website.