Royal New Zealand Air Force Band to perform in Wellington

Dances and Arias will see the band performing music from France, Scotland, Russia and elsewhere, arranged for a full 60-piece symphonic band.

The concert will include instrumental arias featuring soloists from within the band: Corporal Reuben Chin on saxophone, and Corporal Byron Newton and Leading Aircraftman Luke Spence on euphonium.

The concert is designed for classical music enthusiasts and those curious about classical music, with a varied, lively and accessible programme ranging from the mid-nineteenth century until today. Featured composers will include Jean Sibelius, Maurice Ravel, and Camille Saint-Saëns. 

“We’re delighted to be back performing in Wellington, and in particular to show concert goers here the versatility and expressiveness of this musical ensemble. This collection of dances and instrumental arias will transport audience members across the globe, and highlight some wonderfully enjoyable moments in the classical repertoire,” said the band’s music director, Flight Lieutenant David Gallaher MNZM. 

Although Dances and Arias will be the band’s first public concert of the year in Wellington, they have had a busy start to 2021. In February, they completed a week-long tour of parts of Canterbury and Otago, performing to more than 2500 school students, and more than 1500 members of the general public.

More recently, they have also been present at numerous ceremonial and musical events in Wellington, including CubaDupa, the national commemoration services for Anzac Day, and the memorial service for HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

RNZAF Band Concert Dances and Arias Information 
Where: Te Whaea National Dance and Drama Centre
When: Sunday 16 May
Time: 2pm