The choir's annual carol concert has become a cherished event in Rotorua's music calendar.
An imaginative programme, the building's great character, and the intimate placement of singers and audience all contributed to an occasion which had an overwhelming feeling of good fellowship and optimism.
Conductor Martyn Heath had selected somecarols in the English tradition, such as Joy to the World and We Wish You a Merry Christmas, but most of the programme was taken from the wide variety of the places and times where Christmas has been celebrated.
If some of the new carols were not as affecting as they could have been, this came from their unfamiliarity in contrast to that of the hearty old favourites. Especially appealing was the extensive range of moods and styles, from the touching Huron Carol to the down-to-earth Cowboy Carol.
A full complement of recorders in the Out of the Woodwork ensemble gave a rich, mellow sound, fitting in splendidly with the singers and surroundings. Kathryn Lauder's deft keyboard accompaniment gave admirable support.
