Macleans College Chorale selected for The Big Sing National Finale
Posted on July 24, 2025
The Auckland Town Hall came alive with harmony, colour and choral excellence during The Big Sing Regional Festival, as school choirs from across the city shared their passion for singing with large and appreciative audiences.
Macleans College was represented by four choirs: Aria Junior, Knights of the Castle, Aria Senior and Chorale.
Aria Junior
Aria Junior captured hearts with their energetic and communicative singing. Their performance featured a vibrant variety of pieces, highlighting the choir’s enthusiasm and musical versatility. A standout solo by Bernice Han (Te Kanawa House) and the sensitive accompaniment of pianist Sharon Zhu (Upham) were warmly received by the audience.
Knights of the Castle
Knights of the Castle combined innovation and tradition in their set. They premiered a new work by acclaimed composer David Hamilton, enhanced by a striking performance from Allison Hu (Batten) on Guzheng and Daniel Lee (Upham) on piano. Their programme also included Stodola Pumpa, a lively Czech folk song arranged by Mark Weston, which impressed audiences with its rhythm, energy and fun spirit.
Aria Senior
With over 180 singers, Aria Senior was the largest choir to take the stage. Their performance of a set of lullabies brought a moment of calm and reflection to the festival, showcasing the choir’s warm tone and rich harmonies.
Chorale
Chorale was a clear audience favourite, delivering a captivating recital that earned them the Gala Concert Award for Tate le Fia Manatua (arr. Steven Rapana). They also received the award for excellence in a performance of a work in ‘other styles’ for Pure Imagination (arr. Matthew Neilsen), beautifully accompanied by pianist Selina Wang (Upham).
In a major achievement, Chorale received a coveted invitation to The Big Sing National Finale in Dunedin next month. Out of more than 250 choirs nationwide, only 24 were selected, with Chorale among just five mixed choirs to qualify - an outstanding testament to the dedication and artistry of its members.
Special thanks to the Saumani family for their creativity and leadership in supporting the choir’s performances of traditional Samoan music and movement, and to vocal consultant James Harrison for his expert guidance.
The Big Sing Auckland Regional Festival continues to highlight the outstanding talent emerging from school choirs across Aotearoa. It remains a vibrant celebration of choral music, collaboration and the shared joy of singing together.
