Two works from one of the 20th century’s great composers, a celebrated young conductor, Australasia’s most accomplished opera singers, two commanding choirs, and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. All in one incredible performance.

The 2012 Festival opened with this monumental double bill of two neo-classical works from Igor Stravinsky. This stunning gala concert balanced the sorrow of Oedipus’ fate with the redemptive chorus of Symphony of Psalms.

For the famously tragic tale of Oedipus Rex, a riveting line-up of opera soloists included Stuart Skelton as Oedipus, Daniel Sumegi as Creon, Margaret Medlyn as Jocasta and Martin Snell as Tiresias, the soothsayer. A line-up that ensured Oedipus Rex dazzled from its first explosive chorus to its heart-rending finale.

Exuding power to the point of exaltation, Symphony of Psalms has been called one of Stravinsky’s most impressive works, and when the audience heard the 40-strong choir join the orchestra’s pure and resonant music, they instantly understood why.

Both pieces were a tribute to Stravinsky’s diversity and instinct for the theatrical. With Portuguese conductor Joana Carneiro at the helm, this performance was the ideal way to kick-off Festival 2012.

New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

The Chapman Tripp Opera Chorus of The NBR New Zealand Opera

Conductor Joana Carneiro

With Stuart Skelton (tenor), Margaret Medlyn (soprano), Martin Snell (bass) and Daniel Sumegi (bass-baritone)