“The only thing better than singing is more singing.” — Ella Fitzgerald
Songs of Pasifika
Voices of Sāmoa, Tonga, Fiji & Aotearoa
Special guests: Westlake Boys High School Fijian Group
Sunday 5 July, 4 pm
St Matthew-in-the-City, Auckland
Experience the vibrant pulse of the Pacific as Luminata Voices presents a dedicated celebration of Pasifika choral music. From the storied shores of Sāmoa and Fiji to the contemporary sounds of Aotearoa, this performance explores the rich tapestry of harmony, storytelling and identity that defines our region.
More than a traditional recital, this project sees Luminata Voices step off the risers and into the rhythm. Featuring dynamic movement and evocative arrangements by renowned composers like Steven Rapana and Poulima Salima, the programme traverses the emotional spectrum from the playful energy of Minoi Minoi to the soul-stirring farewell of Tofa Mai Feleni.
Join us for an afternoon that honours the enduring spirit of Pasifika music through the power and precision of the female voice.
Book now at Humanitix.
2024 Highlights
In April, we presented Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater, featuring soloists Celia Aspey-Gordon (Soprano) and Jessica Wells (Alto), and for the incredible musicianship of the Auckland Chamber Music Collective and Emma Gavenda (Harpsichord).
In July, the World Choir Games were held in our hometown, and Luminata Voices were beyond thrilled to have received GOLD at the Champions Competition in the Women’s Chamber Choir category!
We closed off the year with a magical afternoon of festive cheer! Our Christmas High Tea concert was an absolute triumph, welcoming over 170 wonderful audience members across two spectacular sessions. The music, the joy, and the warmth of the season truly came alive as we shared this special moment together.
Curious about our sound? This recording is from our launch concert in May 2021. Singing in traditional Basque text, this is a live performance of Izar Ederrak by Josu Elberdin (https://www.elberdin.com/)
Live performance of Izar Ederrak
Josu Elberdin
Performed by Luminata Voices Women’s Chamber Choir
Vanessa Kay - Musical Director
Cathy Bennett - Collaborative Pianist
Recorded by David Kay, May 2021
Recorded at our Immerse and Indulge concert in 2022, here is our live performance of When October Goes (with Autumn Leaves), arranged by Paul Langford, featuring Cathy Bennett on piano and Rachel Wells on cello.
Live Performance of When October Goes (with Autumn Leaves)
Barry Manilow and Joseph Kosma arr. Paul Langford
Performed by Luminata Voices Women's Chamber Choir
Vanessa Kay - Musical Director
Cathy Bennett - Collaborative Pianist
Rachel Wells - Cello
Recorded by David Kay, May 2022
Luminata Voices is a high-calibre, auditioned chamber choir for women.
Based in Auckland, New Zealand, our singers are experienced and highly-trained choral musicians. We are also busy women with varied professional backgrounds and families. We bring to life a range of music written for treble voices.
We are led by Musical Director, Vanessa Kay
It goes without saying that a group of highly-trained musicians demand a high standard of leadership. Vanessa leads us on a journey filled with laughter and community, as well as excellence in music-making.
“Me aro ki te hā o Hine-ahu-one – Pay heed to the mana of women”
— whakataukī (traditional proverbial saying)