A Child of Our Time

First performed in 1944, Sir Michael Tippett's A Child of our Time is a unique anti-war oratorio, the composer's moving response to a Jewish boy's desperate murder of a German official in Paris.  
Although over seventy years have passed since its first performance the power and immediacy of the music and the message remain and offer a stirring, dramatic and incredibly astonishing live concert experience.

Tippett uses Handel's heart-soaring Messiah as the basis for A Child of our Time's structure while five remarkably arranged spirituals, inspired by the chorale harmonies in Bach's Passions, boldly and cleverly reinforce the plight of persecuted peoples worldwide. These spirituals have become a stand-out element of this oratorio, giving it a singular and appealing sound.

Shifting from shadow into light, A Child of our Time's wide-ranging musical narrative begins with images of despair and violence and ends by recognising human resilience and our universal capacity for compassion. 

Joined by Voices New Zealand Chamber choir, New Zealand Youth Choir and four impassioned soloists, the Orchestra will deliver a stirring and deeply moving musical encounter that will overwhelm you with its emotional power.

*Tippett's oratorio is preceded by Arvo Pärt's Silouan's Song and Messiaen's Hymne au Saint-Sacrement a powerful, dramatic orchestration of an early, lost organ work

(The duration of the entire concert is 2 hrs 45 mins plus optional pre show talk. Details TBC closer to the time). 

Students are able to attend a free open rehearsal of this stunning work however we still require you to fill out the booking form below as numbers are limited.

Year Level: 11-13
Subjects: Music, History 

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For enquiries contact us at schools@aaf.co.nz

With support from Platinum Patrons Sir Roderick & Gillian, Lady Deane

In association with

apo.co.nz