As of 2025 you are the sole Artistic Director of NZ Barok after a co-directorship with Graham McPhail since 2010. What is your vision for the ensemble going forward?

NZ Barok has existed for 20 years and already have an incredible track record. We’ve recorded multiple CDs, performed in the Taupo Arts Festival, toured to Wellington, Christchurch and Northland, played operas, worked with vocal ensembles and performed with world-famous soloists.
My vision for the future is to uphold the legacy of Dr Graham McPhail, to continue our ground-breaking concert series, to share our experience through education and mentorship, and to continue providing a platform for baroque musicians to perform in Aotearoa.
As well as all-of-the-above, I would love to perform some of the cornerstones of the baroque choral repertoire, opera, and to collaborate with dance and theatre.

What gave you the inspiration for the upcoming Melody, Harmony, and Fire concerts?

The inspiration for these concerts is twofold. Firstly, two of our incredible Friends of NZ Barok members shared their passion for the Neapolitan School and opened my eyes to the possibilities within the brilliant compositional melting pot of 18th century Naples. Secondly, I was introduced to Austin Haynes while I was on tour in Melbourne a few years ago. After meeting him again last year, after his 3rd prize win in the Lexus Songquest, I realised the combination of Neapolitan music and Austin’s countertenor voice would be the perfect fit for a programme with NZ Barok.

Why is Neapolitan baroque music so special?

Naples was the musical centre of Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. Musicians flocked to the city to join one of the prestigious Conservatories. There was intense competition among the composer-performers, rigorous compositional training and a particular focus on melodic invention. This, coupled with outstanding soloists, produced the much-admired Neapolitan school. Neapolitan musicians were coveted for posts in courts throughout Europe, and their style influenced the development of Western Classical Music as we know it today.

This will be Austin Haynes’s first concerts with NZ Barok. What can the audience look forward to in this collaboration?

NZ Barok is incredibly excited to be collaborating with Austin. Austin is a perfect example of a Renaissance Man. Not only a talented musician and engaging performer, Austin is also an academically curious scholar and a fluent te reo Māori speaker. Our audience can be sure to enjoy his gorgeous sound, incredible technique, bubbly personality, and captivating musicianship. This concert is not-to-be missed. Be sure to grab your tickets today!