I’m thrilled to be making my debut with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in Handel’s Messiah. This is an epic end to what will have been a hugely busy 2026 with lots of domestic and international travel. To be ending the year with such a special work, and with my international Symphony Orchestra debut really is rather spectacular. Lucky me!
We are pleased to welcome Australian conductor Erin Helyard to steer the NZSO and The Tudor Consort through this beloved and substantial work. Though Helyard began his career primarily as a virtuoso harpsichordist, his conducting of works, especially operas, from the Baroque period is what has placed him squarely on the map. Named Limelight Critics’ Choice Australian Artist of the Year in 2023, Helyard is guaranteed to bring his special touch to Handel’s Messiah, combining deep musicological expertise with an opera aficionado’s instinct for drama and flair.
Join us for the spine-tingling majesty of The Trumpet Shall Sound and the joyful grandeur of the Hallelujah chorus, in the final concert of the NZSO’s 2026 Season.
Saturday 19 December 2026 7:30pm
Michael Fowler Centre
Messiah
Wellington | Te Whanganui-a-Tara
ERIN HELYARD Conductor/Harpsichord
SAMANTHA CLARKE Soprano
ASHLYN TYMMS Mezzo-soprano
KYLE STEGALL Tenor
ANDREW O’CONNOR Bass-baritone
THE TUDOR CONSORT Choir
