The Royal New Zealand Navy Band will perform a memorial concert today for Armistice Day, marking the 100th anniversary of World War One, at Auckland’s Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Evoking powerful and emotive extremes, the 35 musicians of the Navy Band will pay tribute to New Zealand's past and present.
Director of Music, Lieutenant Commander (LTCDR) Owen Clarke chose Armistice Day specifically.
"Music can be a very poignant way to pay tribute and also remember past conflicts, service and sacrifice. It's an opportunity to reflect on the service of those who served in World War One, and in all conflicts over the years," he says.
"This concert will also touch on the lighter music of the day which gave people relief from the horrors or war. The music played will include some written during WWI ("Mars", by Gustav Holst), songs from WWI and WWII, and a special tribute section that is unique to a military band- including a bugler, the Last Post, and lowering of a flag."
The Navy Band will be joined by brass musicians from Auckland's top Brass Bands for a special feature work "Lonely Beach" by James Barnes, and then a combined finale.
Renowned New Zealand vocalist and Naval Reserve sailor, Rebecca Nelson, will perform at the concert. Both Ms Nelson and LTCDR Clarke will be representing the NZ Defence Force at Gallipoli for the 100th anniversary in 2015.
What: Royal NZ Navy Band REMEMBER Concert When: Tuesday 11 November 7.00pm Where: Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell
Tickets are $20 adults, $18 seniors, $5 children/students, from iTicket 09 361 1000.