There was some sort of chemistry in the air which made an open-hearted concert by two fine choirs into a celebration of choral singing.
The well-prepared choirs from Michigan, USA and Rotorua caught the spirit of the occasion, and relished an imaginative and varied programme.
Each choir thrived both at
the chance to show off their undoubted qualities to the other when singing on their own and when joining forces.
They had the benefit of having conductors, James Parker and Evelyn Falconer, who are outstanding motivators and equipped with impressive skills at getting choral ensemble and expression from singers.
The visitors' convincing Maori pronunciation in the Maori folk hymn Ka Waiata a Maria and their heart-felt performances of American spirituals made these highlights.
