Songuine

Revelation: Performance Insecurities in Extremely Talented Professional

2011-11-22T20:08:00.001+13:00

Hila Plitmann, wife of Eric Whitacre of Virtual Choir fame, is a professional soprano of extraordinary talent, and yet in her blog article, "Great Expectation", she candidly describes the performance insecurities she faces and how she's learning to deal with them.

I love the comments that have been posted by her blog readers, a paraphrase here, an affirmation there. My favourites are profoundly deaf Terry Burns defying the nay-sayers with his singing, and Amanda Craft who writes: "It is so refreshing when professionals stand up and help debunk the perfection myth. This kind of honest writing is so needed in the lives of young singers."

Sing a Song of Sewing

2011-11-21T18:56:00.001+13:00

I'm a singer/songwriter. I'm also a fashion journalist [visit Boutique Narelle here]. I looked at this sewing machine and saw a piano. =) Just had to share.

Waltzing Forward

2011-11-16T22:25:00.001+13:00

What a happy day I've had! I'm working on final edits to my "Magdala Waltz" with arranger extraordinaire Carolyn Ballinger Sjostrom (creator of "My Child"), and testing it out on guest audiences. =) =) =) Very encouraging responses thus far.

Where to Find an Audience

2011-11-10T15:11:00.002+13:00

I heard of a young lady in a small town who is passionate about performing music but doesn't know where to start doing so. If I could tell her one thing, it would be "read this article" >>>

http://www.singingsuccess.com/blog/2009/4/find-your-audience-your-own-back-yard

Putting my personal music philosophy into words, US radio personality Devon O'Day terms it "a service business". There are opportunities to be seen and heard all around you and you just need to uncover them. Devon O’Day says singers should look for ways to engage [your] gifts through community service.

“One of the most important areas that singers, songwriters, and artists often miss, is the service aspect of what they do,” O’Day said. “There are organizations that meet weekly, that need inspiration, motivation, and your music.”

She suggests that singers work solo or as a group to create an inspiring presentation framed with a topic. This is what my accompanist Elaine Swanney and I have done in our small rural town. Our topics have included "The War Years" and Irish or Scottish celebrations which we share at old folks homes and activity programs. I have a stack of music folders labelled with themes such as "Follow Your Dreams" or "Hope" which I look forward to lodging in a public program.

In addition, I seek occasions to sing whenever we have guests in our home. I may ask for their thoughts on the latest song I've written, or I may sense as they leave that there is a need for a blessing or positive focus. (Have you noticed that conversation frequently centers on the negatives of our world?)

My favourite song to sing on these occasions is "My Child" by Carolyn Ballinger Sjostrom. Whenever I share this beautiful song (for which Carolyn has provided me with a piano backing track), it ministers deeply to our guests and I am rewarded through being able to give them such a gift.

On one occasion after hearing the song, a grandmother asked if I had a recording of it so she could share the blessing with her family. A few months later she repeatedher request, hopeful of gifts for Christmas, and was very sorry when I again had to say no.

I will keep studying on how to solve my recording dilemma, and meanwhile, challenge you to join me in sharing your gift with those around you, where you are now. You may be surprised at the rewards it brings.

Discover What Drives Your Singing Success

2011-11-04T19:23:00.000+13:00

I love this article, too! Reading through it, my mind was exclaiming "Yes! Yes!" When I got to the end, all I could say was, "Wow!"

So of course I had to share it with you. Discover What Drives Your Singing Success: http://www.singingsuccess.tv/forums/news/6869/

Helpful Questions for Quality Control

2011-11-04T19:09:00.001+13:00

This post is in the form of a note-to-self exercise. I'm studying Singing Success using Brett Manning's generous free resources, and hope one day to take advantage of the full program. Today, I'm reminding myself of and pointing you to four helpful questions for enhancing your presentation.

These simple questions are:

What worked best?
What didn’t work well/at all?
What needs the most attention or work?
What resources are needed to improve quality, performance, knowledge, expertise, communication?

Click the link to read the full article, "The Right Questions to Enhance Performance" : http://www.singingsuccess.tv/forums/news/6870/

Message in a Bottle found on Lady Elliot Island

2011-07-16T18:33:00.000+12:00

PRESS RELEASE
What’s the most amazing thing you could find on a beach? Two New Zealand women think they’ve found it, and are keen to share its story through their YouTube video “Roma’s Message in a Bottle”.

Narelle and Isabel Worboys invite you to help them find Roma by sharing the video with your friends.

Here's the YouTube link (new improved version): http://youtu.be/6WX3cGmY0u8

Local Program Off the Cuff

2011-07-09T23:22:00.001+12:00

On Friday I went to Rahiri as support for the cellist who was making her local debut. My mother has just passed Grade 4 cello after 18 months of study. It's her 'retirement fun' but she's worked really hard for it. She's such an inspiration to me. I set up her music stand & chair...and ended up singing several impromptu brackets to give her a rest! It's been 2 years since I did a local program. It felt so good to be back on the stage sharing music with an enthusiastic audience. Mum did really well. She gave them Tchaikovsky, Bach, Handel, Elgar, and Traditional melodies that had the audience humming, singing, and whistling along. And Stephen Foster. I don't think he's classified as Traditional, but the audience probably would have said so!

Sheet Music for Roma's Message in a Bottle

2011-06-11T20:36:00.000+12:00

I’m thinking of making “I Have Loved You” available as a sheet music download. Would you like it for acapella voice (as in Roma’s Message in a Bottle), or would you want it with an accompaniment?

Supersonic Music Source!

2011-06-01T20:05:00.007+12:00

I LOVE www.Musicnotes.com! Mum says, "We don't have the music for this song. How does it go?" I say, "Let's check Musicnotes." In 5 minutes we have the sheet music on the piano. It couldn't get any better than that!!! =)

TTV interviews Jules Riding and Narelle on tour in NZ

2011-05-27T07:40:00.002+12:00

Above is the short version. Below is the full 13 minutes broadcast on 23 November 2010.

Songuine Enters the Fashion Industry!

2011-05-06T19:23:00.003+12:00

I'm delighted that two of my entrepreneurial strands are coming together! The opening of the Boutique Narelle TV channel to compliment the Boutique Narelle website became possible when I found a legal source of backing music -- my own vocal productions.

The BNTV flagship video features the first recording I've done with a professional backing track. I loved creating it. I hope you enjoy the result. Let me know what you think!

Tech Note: The song was filmed on video and the audio extracted. The narration track was recorded with mp3 voice recorder. How does the balance sound for you?

ANZAC Song 2011: Blue Smoke

2011-05-06T19:15:00.002+12:00

To commemorate ANZAC Day 2011, here's "Blue Smoke" by Ruru Karaitiana.* If you're missing someone you love, this is especially for you.

*See the YouTube info box for more on this WWII musician from my hometown.

BLUE SMOKE
Ruru Karaitiana
Blue smoke goes drifting by into the deep blue sky
And when I think of home I sadly sigh.
Oh, I can see you there with loving tears in your eyes
As we fondly said our last goodbyes.
And as I sailed away with a longing to stay,
I promised I'd be true and to love only you.
Blue smoke goes drifting by into the deep blue sky
My memories of home will never die.

Do you think I'm progressing toward better video quality? I'd love to hear from you. Suggestions welcomed!

I'm pleased with the photographer, model, and stylist, but the audio technician is definitely lagging behind. She needs a tutor to teach her how to work the microphone and its software, and a studio to put them all in! April 25th arrived without a good audio solution, so she went with the trusty old mp3 recorder in the bathroom. By the time they had all that worked out, the poor vocalist was oversung!

As the tools and talents improve, the results can only get better. Thanks for stopping by, spending a little of your precious time with Songuine. May your life be filled with songs that lift you up and help you catch the wind.

Sail on.
Narelle

Virtual Choir 2.0: where in the world to find Narelle

2011-04-27T15:12:00.001+12:00

I'm told my verbal directive for how you can find me in the virtual universe is not sufficient, so I've doctored the image. Find the green circle and you've found me on Planet Australia.

This extraordinary five minutes of international choralation is charging toward viral status. If you haven't seen it yet, here's the link: http://youtu.be/6WhWDCw3Mng Find out what the world's so gob-smacked about!

If you're in Germany, you can view the video on Vimeo here: http://vimeo.com/22960177?ab

On being a member of "Sleep" Virtual Choir 2.0

2011-04-20T19:00:00.080+12:00

What it was like being a part of this record-breaking event

The music was more difficult than I'd attempted before, requiring control and dynamic flexibility that stretched me. I didn't have a teacher to help, but I found excellent support from the sheet music and Eric Whitacre's tutorial and conductor videos. I also studied other uploads to see if I was on track.

I loved working with a skilled conductor. Eric knows what he wants and leads with clarity. He also has a talent for connecting with his choir. You see, the experience didn't stop once I'd uploaded the video of my vocal part.

With an earplug in one ear to hear the keyboard chords, I let Eric guide me through the choral labyrinth.

One bare voice goes public, trusting that this one strange part will be transformed by togetherness into captivating aural beauty. What a long 3 months of waiting it was until the New York Premiere on 7 April 2011!

My favourite testimony. There are many amazing stories, but I really connected with the isolation this lady describes.

Through social media, I've been able to converse with a music professional who generously allows me access to his knowledge and his friends. I've been able to ask for advice and share in online music experiences with others.

From my isolated, lonely place on the planet, I've become part of a universal, ongoing musical event. My health might limit my physical journey, but broadband internet has opened the world to me. I'm amazed and blessed to be given this opportunity.

Melody Myers, soloist in Virtual Choir 1.0, through whose YouTube channel I discovered Eric Whitacre's music and signed myself into the info loop.

Virtual Choir 1.0 -- the astonishingly beautiful "Lux Aurumque" (Light and Gold) that introduced Virtual Choir to the world. With 2 million hits and counting, you can view it here: http://youtu.be/D7o7BrlbaDs.

Filming my part was not a simple affair.

Camera and tripod perched on filing cabinet. Netbook connected to YouTube conductor track perched on hatbox on bookshelf. Blanket backdrop pinned over closet doors. Desk chair supporting spineless sound proofing. Stool and cushion for positioning artist. Lamp for cooking artist.

Helpful sound engineers advised me (by email) to use mattresses to absorb bounced sound. This was the best setup I could figure out in my small room. The mattress, borrowed from a neighbour, was so floppy that it soon folded over on itself, despite wavery support from the chair. I was relieved to discard it. Without the chair blocking the doorway (which had to be shut when recording, but open between takes on this sweltering summer's day), the task became slightly less complicated.

If you're wondering why I had my netbook perched in this unlikely position, it was because I wanted to keep my chin up while looking at the conductor. One thing I hadn't figured out was how helpful a video camera's flip screen can be, so all frame checks had to be done by climbing behind the mattress and leaning around the tripod without bumping the camera. Ah well, we live and learn.

SUCCESS: Listening to the playback from the camera, elated that I'd achieved my goal before the deadline. Excitement and cosmetics cover a multitude of weariness.

Spotting Narelle in Virtual Choir 2.0

2011-04-08T12:04:00.002+12:00

Here is the record-breaking video:

Did you find me in the choir's virtual universe?

I'm on the Australian planet (yes, well, what do we Kiwis think of that? lol). I'm directly above the word "Australia", second row up. Planet Australia revolves past viewers between the phrases "Upon my pillow safe in bed" and "a thousand pictures fill my head".

Here's an EarthView from Google showing where the "Planet Australia" singers are from. I will post details soon of what it was like to be one of them.

And here's the man who made it possible: Eric Whitacre.

I'm sorry I don't have a photo of Team Whitacre. As Eric says, he's just the face of the project. The technicians and management staff made it happen. I close this post with a heartfelt, enthusiastic roar of applause for TEAM WHITACRE!!!

Extraordinary Journey

2011-04-05T10:52:00.001+12:00

What an extraordinary journey I'm on. Living with such limitations, yet still given wonderful opportunities.

This week marks significant milestones on that journey. I'm on Australian TV and I'm part of the Virtual Choir World Premiere in New York. Yep. Extraordinary.

Narelle Singing on Aussie TV

2011-04-03T14:26:00.004+12:00

On 5 dates this month, Australians have the chance to hear Narelle sing on TV with Jules Riding!

You can watch the Cataclysm live concert filmed in Auckland on 9 October 2010 by tuning in to ACCTV (online or on television) on these dates.

Tues, 5 April - 8pm
Wed, 6 April - 1.30pm
Thur, 7 April - 1am
Thur, 14 April - 8.30am
Fri, 15 April - 1.30pm

Viewers in SA and NT subtract 30 minutes, and viewers in WA subtract 2 hours.

Jules Riding is touring in NSW, Victoria, and Tasmania this month. Check here for details: http://www.elkanah.org.nz/itinerary

These photos are from the Auckland concert filmed live for DVD. If you can't tune in to ACCTV on the above dates, you can view the tracks on www.YouTube.com/JulesRiding or buy the CD/DVD album or download from www.elkanah.org.nz. You can also view five clips of the New Zealand tour band at www.YouTube.com/Songuine.

View the World Premiere of Virtual Choir 2.0 !

2011-04-02T12:19:00.003+13:00

Have you heard of Virtual Choir? If you haven't seen the videos yet, they'll knock your socks off.

80s popstar wannabe Eric Whitacre, now superstar classical composer and conductor, reveals details of the Virtual Choir 1.0 and 2.0, and the latter's world premiere in just one week:

New Zealand gets honourable mention! I'm excited and amazed to think I'm part of such a project. Did you spot me in the virtual universe...? ; ) Here's a clue for what to look for:

You can view the world premiere streaming live from New York on 7 April 2011, 6pm ET. http://www.paleycenter.org/2011-spring-eric-whitacre In New Zealand, that will be 10am on Friday, 8 April.

Where ever you are in the world, I hope you'll join me for this history-making event!
Warm wishes,
Narelle
www.YouTube.com/Songuine

If you'd like a text explanation of what is Virtual Choir, how it's done, and who is Eric Whitacre, click on this link and read the info box under the video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geEm94ULVSQ

Seeds of Possibility

2011-03-19T15:41:00.001+13:00

I've been thinking about things we hear or see or people we meet that introduce us to possiblities we didn't know existed. This plants a seed, an idea, an inspiration that blossoms, and before we know it our life is transformed.

Who or what has done this in your life?

My voice journey began with a newspaper promotional of Charlotte Church's live-in-concert television special, "Enchantment". The photograph caught my attention. The article intrigued me. I asked a friend to record the program. As the title promised, I was enchanted. I found out who she was and located her first CD "Voice of an Angel" at The Warehouse.

Growing up, I listened to a high proportion of instrumental classical music. I didn't know voices like Charlotte's existed. That tv special opened a new world of musical enjoyment for me.

Charlotte got me listening to female soloists, but it was the principle singer in Riverdance that started me on the road to doing it. My sister bought the video and I watched it often, skipping the instrumental and Spanish dance parts so I could get to the vocal ensemble faster. Katie McMahon's voice was like nothing I'd heard or knew existed. I was enthralled by her clarity and sweetness. It didn't occur to me that I could ever sing that way, but it changed the way I tried to sing.

A few years on in my musical journey, somewhere between singing "Irish Lullaby" at local retirement homes and recording "Looking at the Father" with Jules Riding in Auckland, I discovered I could sing like that.

What have you achieved that started from a small seed planted by a stranger or friend?

Being Committed

2011-03-18T21:11:00.001+13:00

I'm working on being more committed to my performance, on being 100% in the moment and expressing the emotion, not distracted or holding back, but focused, passionate. How about you? Are you focusing your passion, or letting yourself be distracted? Are you committed?

Love msg for Christchurch earthquake victims

2011-03-01T12:11:00.000+13:00

The entire nation of New Zealand is in shock over the earthquake disaster in Christchurch on 22 February 2011. We're grieving for the victims, we're wondering why did we escape, how can we help, is there hope amongst the rubble?

LYRICS:

Abide with me. Fast falls the eventide.
The darkness deepens. Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, Lord, abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day.
Earth's joys grow dim. It's glories pass away.
Change and decay in all around I see.
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.

Words by Henry Lyte
Music by W. H. Monk

NZ Waitangi Day song - My Home and My Heartland

2011-02-05T00:33:00.002+13:00

Do you love New Zealand? Make your Waitangi Day special by singing about it! To get you started, here's a song about our unique and beautiful country.

MY HOME AND MY HEARTLAND

Ooowh...
New Zealand, New Zealand,
My home and my heartland.
I love her cool glades and
her fern-shaded streams.
I roam with delight o'er her
mountains and beaches.
What land can excel her,
fair land of my own?
Ooowh...
Men of every creed and race
gather here before God's face,
asking Him to bless this place.
God, defend our Free Land.
From dissension, envy, hate,
and corruption guard our State.
Make our country good and great.
God, defend New Zealand.
Ooowh...

We have so much here that is good, don't we? What value do you place on that? Is it worth you protecting it?

I'm sure you know that good things don't happen by wishful thinking. They come from the purposeful hearts of individuals. My home is my heartland. I make it what I want it to be. How about you?

A Maori gentleman said on national radio this weekend that the Treaty of Waitangi was a treaty between man and God, so our starting point as a nation was in unity before the sovereign Almighty. Where are we as a nation today? Do you sing this with me?...

"May our mountains ever be
Freedom's ramparts on the sea.
Make us faithful unto Thee.
God defend New Zealand."

Medley arranged by Narelle Worboys
First verse adapted from "New Zealand, My Homeland", an heritage song by Robert J. Pope
Second verse from New Zealand's national anthem, "God of Nations", by Thomas Bracken and John Joseph Woods.

Narelle's miracle voice and how YouTube got her started

2011-01-10T16:09:00.000+13:00

Those of you who knew Narelle as a teenager will know that her voice wasn't anything to exclaim about. Wondering what happened? Watch this video.

New videos - Cataclysm Tour with Jules Riding

2011-01-10T16:08:00.001+13:00

Below are the links to 4 songs filmed during the Masterton and Wellington concerts in November 2010.

You may have heard the Cataclysm CD or watched the DVD with the 16-member band, but you haven't experienced the tour version! The six members of the tour band created a sound we're very proud of. We hope it blesses you!

Cataclysm Tour - In Your Presence
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeTJcVE1B0s

Cataclysm Tour - Holy God
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBXoFx7XMzE

Cataclysm Tour - Follow the Lamb
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaguJrN-M3g

Cataclysm Tour - Because of the Cross
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Co02jia8mJo

Want your own copy of the Cataclysm album? Buy on iTunes, www.Amplifier.co.nz, or get both CD and DVD for the price of one! Click here to shop now at http://www.elkanah.org.nz

What a mistake to make!

2011-01-09T12:23:00.001+13:00

The saying goes,
A mistake is evidence that someone has tried to do something.

I'm always trying to do something, so mistakes decorate my existence like red bows on a Christmas tree.

Two days ago, I tried to send a nice, sensible message to my YouTube friends and subscribers. What I managed instead was to send a pile of invitations for them to join YouTube! Yes, as the rat who stood on the rake said, What a silly mistake to make. What was worse was that I still couldn't figure out how to send a message I typed myself, so I couldn't apologize!

I found two YouTube tutorials on how to do it, but the instructions wouldn't work for me, so I can only suppose that YouTube was sulking. I have yet to go back and try again.

If you're one of the nice, innocent people whose day I interrupted with a silly email, I'm sorry! I hope I won't do it again!

Narelle on TV

2010-12-22T23:49:00.000+13:00

Jules Riding's new dvd CATACLYSM will air on Shine TV on January 1st and 2nd. You can watch online. Go to www.ShineTV.co.nz.

1 JAN, 7:30 - 9pm
2 JAN, 1:00 - 2:30pm.

Look out for Narelle in songs "In Your Presence" and "Holy God".

The Band on Tour with Jules Riding

2010-12-21T20:25:00.001+13:00

Cataclysm Tour Band, photo taken after Masterton concert: Terese Marr, Janice Martin, Narelle Worboys, Greg Smith, Adrian du Toit, Jules Riding, Joelle Martin.

Terese and Narelle

Greg gets into the groove in Napier Cathedral

Joelle on duty at the sales table, Wellington

Decisions, decisions...

Adrian and Greg hanging in Napier Cathedral

Palmerston North sound check

That's Jordan behind Greg. It was incredibly hard to get a good shot of our sound man. Through set up, sound check, and concert, he rarely stopped moving in search of the best sound.

Isabel and David Worboys found a myriad of ways to help, and loved all four of the concerts they attended.

Terese Marr

Janice Martin

Adrian du Toit on King Tut'sThrone

When on tour, grab any nook you can for a bite in comfort! In this case the steps leading to a secret sanctuary entrance.

Old St. Paul's is sooo beautiful. When I first entered, I was speechless with awe.

Jordan finally sat still! with sister Miriam.

Proof that Jules does dance in public. (You may need to enlarge this to enjoy the finer points of his jig style.)

When the three of us got going together -- wow! gorgeous sounds, girls. =)

Narelle on DVD

2010-12-16T16:35:00.002+13:00

Here are the two tracks that feature Narelle's vocals on Jules Riding's cd/dvd album "Cataclysm". Hope you enjoy!

Go to www.elkanah.org.nz to find out how to download tracks or get your own copy of the double album.

Roll on Wedding Song

2010-12-03T11:53:00.000+13:00

The tour with Jules Riding is over but I haven't yet had time to sort the photos and film footage. Next week I fly to Christchurch (yes, the shaky isles) for a dear friend's wedding. I will be singing at her reception with, I believe, a small band. Let's hope the vibrato will only be the kind we like!

Family, friends, fashion, a wedding, and music -- all my favourite things!

How you can hear Jules and Narelle in concert

2010-11-19T20:15:00.001+13:00

Hi! Narelle is on tour with Jules Riding!

You can hear interviews with Jules and Narelle on Tararua Television, 7pm Tuesday November 23rd. You'll need a UHF aerial, then follow the instructions at the bottom of the TTV homepage to tune in. http://www.tararuatv.co.nz/news.php

Mid-tour journal entry by Narelle at http://songuine.blogspot.com/2010/11/narelle-on-tour-with-jules-riding.html

Cataclysm songs are being released one at a time on YouTube: www.YouTube.com/JulesRiding

Cataclysm is available for you to purchase on Amplifier and iTunes. Narelle is featured in "In Your Presence" and "Holy God".

Amplifier.co.nz: http://www.amplifier.co.nz/release/63914/cataclysm.html

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/nz/album/follow-the-lamb/id404741838?i=404741860&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

You have two chances remaining to hear Narelle live with Jules Riding and the band! It will be worth the effort to get there -- she's singing 4 songs on tour, double what she does on the dvd. Click here for venues and times: http://songuine.blogspot.com/2010/10/november-concert-dates.html

Narelle on Tour with Jules Riding

2010-11-19T20:01:00.003+13:00

Two concerts done. Day to rest. Two concerts to go.

A tour concert has a totally different feel to the Auckland filmed show. I'm gaining in confidence, enjoying the process of getting comfortable working in with the band and getting my body to the point that it will do what I tell it. I'm SO thankful I have both my parents with me each night, supporting me and helping the band. Also very glad for a day's rest and my own bed.

The Cathedral Church of St John the Evangelist, Napier, New Zealand

Napier was great. Magnificent venue. Recognizing Samuell away down in the very far (back row) was a cheery moment. He literally flew to the concert, landing his air ambulance and driving off to the concert without stopping to tidy his plane. Another cheery moment was when my backstage high note warm-ups wafted into the sanctuary through a wall we thought was soundproof, leading Jules to comment to the audience about the imminent arrival of angels.

Consider this your invitation to attend our concert!

Sound check at St Peters Anglican Church, Palmerston North, New Zealand

I have three special memories of Palmerston North.

1. Seeing people I know. Eighteen people came because Mum or I invited them, eleven of them from Dannevirke. I deeply appreciate their support.

2. Charmagne's face, an honest face that reflects what she feels. Amid a congregation of solemn visage, it glowed with enjoyment and that glow somehow transferred itself to my heart. I'm sure it added to my performance.

3. I got a chance to scat! During sound check, Jules skipped into a blues rhythm that tweaked my creative urge and I yowled and twanged eight bars of crazy nonsense that lightened the afternoon for everyone. Can't wait to do it again!

Tune in to Tararua Television at 7pm, Tuesday 23 November, for interviews with Jules and I!

Go to Jules Riding on Facebook for testimonies from the Palmerston North concert. =)

November Concert Dates

2010-10-23T18:55:00.006+13:00

If you would like to hear Narelle live in concert with Jules Riding, here's your chance.

Four cities, in venues with wonderful acoustics.

St Johns Cathedral, Browning St, NAPIER Weds 17th Nov 7:30pm
St Peters Anglican, Terrace End, PALMERSTON NTH Thu 18th Nov 7:30pm
St Matthews Anglican, Church St, MASTERTON Sat 20th Nov 7:30pm
Old St Pauls, Mulgrave St, WELLINGTON Sun Nov 21st 7pm
(tickets for Wellington $10ea from Manna Bookstores)

Go to www.elkanah.org.nz for more details.

My Favourite Things - in concert with Jules Riding

2010-10-17T17:00:00.002+13:00

I've put together some photos of my Auckland experience last weekend and added a narration of my favourite things about being recorded and filmed in concert with Jules Riding.

I assure you the audio quality is better than the last video. I hope you enjoy the show, even if there aren't any music tracks yet -- album release date is 12th November.

Jules Riding concert photos

2010-10-12T11:01:00.002+13:00

Click on the link below to view the first batch of Jules Riding concert photos, courtesy of Jachin Mandeno.

http://mandenomoments.com/jules-riding/slideshow

This is a marvelously talented bunch of musicians. I was honoured to be among their number.

Narelle to debut in Auckland with Jules Riding

2010-10-05T19:21:00.006+13:00

Dress rehearsal on Friday, then on Saturday -- lights, camera, action!

Howick is the place you'll want to be this Saturday, 9 October!

You can be part of the live audience when veteran New Zealand recording artist Jules Riding is filmed in concert for his new album CATACLYSM, with Acoustic Band and featuring vocalist Narelle Worboys whom he found on YouTube in March 2009. This is their second collaboration, but the first to be shared with the public.

Other guest artists are Nigel Gavin, Emma Roxburgh, and Hebron Children's Choir. [Wow, I'm sharing billing with Opera NZ resident artist Emma Roxburgh! http://www.theaucklander.co.nz/local/... ]

Don't miss this opportunity to hear great music for an amazing price! Get your tickets now -- just $10 each, $5 unwaged, by emailing tickets@elkanah.org.nz.

Remember, Saturday, 9 October, 7:30pm!
See you at Elim Christian Centre, 159 Botany Road, Howick, Auckland, New Zealand!

For more info on the album and record release/NZ Tour dates go to http://www.elkanah.org.nz.

BTW, "Freestyle" in the video means impromptu, unrehearsed, invention of the moment.

Go out to Concert or Stay at Home?

2010-08-15T18:27:00.008+12:00

When was the last time you went out to a concert?

Perhaps you're like me, counting your pennies and thinking you can't afford such a luxury, that you need to save for your own music gig. Musician, tell yourself, "I can't afford to isolate myself." I was reminded of this today, and of the glory of music collaboration for those who make the music and for those who listen to them make it. In live concert.

Levin Brass Band presented an hour's program featuring brass superstar Riki McDonnell from Auckland. The most successful brass musician in New Zealand's history brought his sweet and bright euphonium sounds to our little town for an afternoon, and what a treat.

Imagine sitting fourth row back on the centre aisle, nothing obscuring your view of the band and soloists except their own brass instruments. You applaud to welcome the white-jacketed conductor, and settle into your pew for an auditory feast. Feel those organ-like vibrations from the big horns travel through the wooden floor, enter the fabric of the pew, and tingle up your spine. Hear the blending and separation and blending again of 30 instruments working as a team, building story and theme and emotion, climax and descent and close.

Recording studio productions may be tweaked to perfection, but there's nothing like a live concert. I'm a better musician because I soak up someone else's skill and creativity. I'm a better human being because I join others in appreciation of something beautiful.

And I discovered a song I want to sing. Here's the closest YouTube has to what I heard. I don't know if the Koreans are using the same arrangement -- it sounds different, but this band doesn't have the advantage of the wonderful Dannevirke St. Johns acoustics, do they? ; )

I'm dreaming of a vocalise duet with brass band backing...ooh, sends a thrill of delight up my spine.

Who were the two ladies in the audience having a chat while the rest of us tried to focus on New Zealand's 2010 Champion of Champions doing things to a hunk of tin like I've never heard before? He called it "Harlequin." I call them rude.

You wouldn't do that to a musician, would you? Or his audience? No, of course not. You don't want to be the most hated individual in the concert hall!

Music-makers need audience. We the audience need music-makers. We all want an harmonious collaboration. They do the work perfecting their craft, we get out of the house to enjoy them, to be there 100%. They benefit, and so do we!

Singing for Susan Boyle & Jules Riding -- in the same year!

2010-07-25T22:35:00.011+12:00

Progress in health management has allowed two exciting things into my life.

I've begun work on backing vocals for Jules Riding's next album debut, a concert that will be filmed live in Auckland on October 9th. Check his website for more details. I expect to also participate in at least a couple of the tour dates, those close to my hometown.

Last week, with 24 hours' notice, I auditioned for Susan Boyle. She's looking for someone to duet with on her next album, someone for whom she can do what Simon Cowell did for her. Even if I'm not what she's looking for, it was a fantastic opportunity, and I was provided with a reason to make a cool video which I hope you'll enjoy watching as much as I enjoyed making!

Just in case you thought the sound effects were contrived...

Hmm, what happened to my quiet year for writing the Queensland novel? That project seems to have been pushed to the back burner! Tomorrow afternoon it shall be my hot spot. I am determined.

Song of the Cans and Cannots

2010-07-19T11:16:00.004+12:00

Written in 2009
Live Your Dream, no matter the obstacles.

Some people see me perform and suppose it comes easily. The truth is I fight my body every time I sing. The possibility of failing to produce a good sound is very real, but I refuse to let the fear of that prevent me from pursuing my dream. I will keep trying, and never give up. And I write these thoughts down so when a task seems too difficult, I have something to help strengthen my resolve.

If your passion is to make music, then you can do it, no matter what obstacles you face, if you truly want it. Canadian figure skater Nicole Watt is a shining example of this philosophy of making your dreams come true.

Nicole Watt is a figure skater who at the age of 14 jumped from Pre-Novice (past Novice and Junior) to Senior level and gained a silver medal at the Calgary Nationals in the year 2000. Nicole had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, a progressively degenerative disease that slowly sapped her strength and stiffened her joints. To combat the symptoms of her disease, she took a powerful drug each week. Even with medication she wasn't symptom free, never knowing which joint might be affected or when. The drug also gave her flu-like symptoms, preventing her from practicing for a day afterwards, but without it, she would have been unable to compete.

In an interview dated February 11, 2003, Nicole said, "I can't control how others skaters will perform, or the view of the judges. The only thing I can control is my focus, dedication, and preparation and hopefully it all comes together. My coach, Dale Hazell, has two things he always quotes to me: 'You only have one competitor--yourself' and 'When preparation and opportunity meet, there will be success'. I do everything I can to be properly prepared."

Limited by her body, Nicole was forced to stop competing that year. Now 23, she's skating again, at a domestic level.

Joni Eareckson Tada was an athletic young woman rendered tetraplegic in 1967 by a tragic accident. She has lots of difficult and feel-bad moments, but she hasn't given up on life. Instead, she's been beating the odds for decades, travelling the world and achieving much as a loved and respected Christian author, artist, radio personality, and advocate for the disabled.

If she didn't give up, neither should you and I.

Philippians 4:13 -- "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Here's a glimpse of one of those "don't give up" moments when I was guest vocalist at a concert. I was focused, I was prepared...and my body wasn't cooperating. But I pursued my dream. Afterward, I was very sick indeed and it's taken me a year to get the concert footage prepared for YouTube. You can view my Princess Moment here at BoutiqueNarelle.

When it comes to pursuing dreams, I have learned about...

VISION. "Without a vision, the people perish."
Know what you want. Plan steps to get you there.

SURRENDER. "The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord."
Do you trust Him? Do you believe He knows what's best for you, that His desire is to give you good gifts, to make all grace abound toward you? There's a simple answer to this: yes or no. If I'm honest, my answer is often no and I need His help to make it yes.

PASSION. How much are you willing to give up or let go of?
Achieving your dream will cost you something, perhaps in quality of life, finance, or social involvement. Count the cost now: is achieving your dream more important to you than a bit of fun and comfort?

PERSEVERENCE. "Wait on the Lord, be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart."
Strength of heart comes from having courage. Courage comes from the knowledge of God's presence with you. It means if you know you're on God's mission, you will never, never, never give up.

PATIENCE. Faith in God's timing.
A producer dropped me from his program without telling me; on another occasion, my first full program of sacred songs was canceled by my host. How did I handle it? By remembering the above points -- Vision, Surrender, Passion, Perseverence -- and added to this Patience.

RESILIENCE. Staying focused.
Media reports listed all the soloists except me, the girl who sang about her faith. Vision, Surrender, Passion, Perseverence, Patience, Resilience!

SUPPORT. People who believe in your ability and provide opportunities for growth.
No man is an island entire of itself. Every one is a part of the continent of mankind. We need each other.

I used to think it would be hard to find someone more isolated than I am, and yet the Lord brought me a producer who "always has me on his list", and a pianist of local influence and experience who lives across the road from me and is delighted to have me work with her. I also have the loving encouragement of my family. Some supporters provide opportunities; some provide positive feedback and encouragement that acts as stimulus to press onward through lull and storm. They're both necessary.

SPECIFIC HANDICAPS. They build character and all of the above.
Singing is a muscular exercise. I have a muscular handicap. For example, during the first years of studying voice seriously, my torso ached from the effects of breath control. Holding my rib cage "open" hurt. Every intake of breath shot a spasm down into my stomach. An hour's singing put me out of commission for the rest of the day. More often than not muscle tension interferes with all the sound-producing mechanisms of my head and neck, but I want to sing, so I persevere through whatever my body throws at me.

My body's refusal to cooperate hasn't gone away. I could say, What's the use of practicing if it's going to hurt and any progress I make could desert me when I'm on stage? I wonder if Nicole Watt ever said that to herself. Perhaps she did, but she found a place of dedication and persistence that enabled her to rise above her handicaps. Her example inspired me to strive to beat the odds.

I don't know how to resolve my health issues. There are times when I'm too unwell to sing and have to decline invitations or cancel events in which I long to participate. I can't advance my skill and experience at a consistent rate because my body can't keep up. I can't... I can't...

And yet, if I choose, I can overwhelm these Cannots with one Can:
I CAN SING.

And so long as I have that passion,
so long as I find pleasure in making beautiful music,
so long as I want to express through song the sorrow and salvation of the world,
so long as my Lord gives me breath to praise Him,
I WILL SING.

I know it's worthwhile, if for no other reason than it lifts my spirit.

The Biblical book of Joshua points out that the tribe of Gad got the prime real estate because they were willing to deal with the tough stuff, while the tribe of Dan quit in the face of hardship and ended up with border territory that was susceptible to every enemy's whim.

Are you focused on frustrations, pain, failure, approval, or applause? These will sap your strength and lead you to quit. Are you willing to deal with the tough stuff? Do you dare overwhelm your Cannots with a Can? What is your dream? Skate or sing, let the joy of the Lord be your strength, and go do what you dreamed!

Roger Black, British Olympic silver medallist, said,

"When I stood on the rostrum in 1996, they put a silver medal around my neck. Michael Johnson had a gold medal put around his neck. We both felt exactly the same, we both performed to the best of our abilities, I knew I could have done no better. Yes, I would have loved to have won an Olympic gold medal, but that feeling of standing on the rostrum, knowing that I’d given it one hundred percent, I could have done no more – that feeling was worth gold to me and I didn’t need to have a gold medal put around my neck to validate the feeling. Ultimately, I think you have to be honest with yourself with your performance, if you can walk off the track knowing you could have done no better, then regardless of the medal, regardless of the place, as hard as it may be, you can at least look at yourself in the mirror and know that you have done the very best you can."

“You don’t have to have a gold medal put around your neck to feel like a champion," says Roger. I'm adding to that, Pursue your dream to the best of your ability, and you too are a champion.

I close with one more true-life story of great courage overcoming incredible obstacles.

In 2005, a dancer who had lost an arm and her professional career invited a one-legged man with no dance experience to be her dance partner. When they won Silver at the China Central Television National Dance Competition in 2007, Ma Li and Zhai Xiaowei became an inspiration to millions of people, both handicapped and able-bodied, as they showed what passion and determination can achieve.

After watching this, do you dare say, "I can't"?

None of these individuals are superhuman. It's not the person that's special, it's the PROCESS. That means you can take the same process and get similar results.

So how about it? Start your process now!

Live Your Dreams

2010-05-08T11:12:00.003+12:00

In May 2009, veteran recording artist Jules Riding helped me find a voice I didn't know I had.

Despite the past year of enforced rest from active music study, I've been learning new things about what I can do as a musician.

The recordings and videos you've heard from me thus far date 2-4 years prior to my studio debut, and Jules hasn't yet released the recording we made together. He assures me you will be wowed by it. It still wows me every time I listen to it. I can't figure out, with my body in such a sad state, from whence the sound comes.

I suppose that's tickled your curiosity. Would it be mean to leave you in silence? Okay, below is a sample from a midnight kitchen session coupled with a photo slideshow in my first exploration of Windows Movie Maker. If the clock and fridge don't get vocal, my kitchen has the best acoustics in the house, but Murphy's Law supplies a humming chorus from them on all the best takes.

Live Your Dreams, wherever you are.

Anzac Day Tragedy - Tribute Memorial

2010-05-01T08:16:00.005+12:00

When I was 10 years old, I sang in the children's choir backing Barry McGuire in a TearFund concert. One of his solos was "Last Farewell" by Randy Sparks, fellow New Christy Minstrels musician. The song spoke so deeply to my heart that I remembered it and sang it to myself many times as I grew up.

Grown up and given the opportunity to perform in an Anzac Day concert, I chose "Last Farewell" as part of my program. Wanting to check that I'd remembered the lyrics correctly, I contacted Barry McGuire and he put me in touch with Randy Sparks.

Guys, here's a recording of that 2007 event rehearsal used as backing for a memorial tribute to the Anzac Day tragedy in New Zealand in 2010. I still love the song. One day I'll do an even better job with it, I promise.

LAST FAREWELL
by Randy Sparks

I’m going away at eventide
Across the wild and windy sea.
I bid you stay, stay here by my side
And share a last farewell with me.

Through snowclad mountains proud and tall
Or a thousand miles ‘cross the burning sand,
Our last farewell then will I recall
When I’m alone in a far off land.

A wandering song is all I know,
Yet I love you more, more than words can tell.
I hear the call and I’m bound to go.
I leave you now with a last farewell.

If you asked me why am I affected by this tragedy, why do I care about the deaths of people I didn't know, I would answer:

"No man is an Island, entire of it self; every man is a piece of the Continent, a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friends or of thine own were; any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankind; And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."
John Donne: Meditation XVII

Another ANZAC Song

2010-04-17T22:58:00.002+12:00

I discovered this song in a Dominion Songbook that dates back to my mother's intermediate school music classes in the 1960s. I have no details about the song's history or the songwriter, so if you know anything, please share!

Honour We the True and Brave, or
FOR ANZAC DAY

Honour we the true and brave,
Who, their lives for us unsparing,
Danger daring, sorrow sharing,
All for King and Country gave.

May we loyal comrades prove,
Bravely for the right contending,
Truth defending, gladly lending
Life to win the world for Love.

Recorded in rehearsal for Anzac Day 2007 concert, performed by Narelle Worboys, accompanied by Wendy Robertson.

On ANZAC Day --

2010-04-16T11:05:00.013+12:00

See your world with new eyes:
remember the past.

Let's not reinvent the wheel. How wasteful it is to chuck out old values and start over at the beginning. Let's learn from what our ancestors learned and build on that!

ANZAC Day, April 25th, 2010

This week I learned how to use Windows MovieMaker, my PC didn't perish at the thought of such a creative proceeding, and the result is a music video for your enjoyment! I feel like having a party! I hope you like the video, and here's hoping there are more to come.

Waiting for Spring

2009-10-20T23:30:00.009+13:00

The promised concert review didn't make it to cyberlaunch because 3 performances during 1 week in the middle of winter were pushing my boundaries too far and I've been very ill ever since. I've been depending on the arrival of spring warmth and new energy, but they're proving elusive. Bring on summer! but in the meantime I've had to clear my schedule through to January and won't be taking new bookings until I'm well and truly on my feet again.

After my winter galivanting came to a halt, it was two months before I had any voice to sing again. I'm still a bit croaky. Looks like bits of my blogs are croaking also...is Photobucket trying to make Songuine kick the bucket? CPR applied...

I had a quadruple neck adjustment today and as a result have been able to enjoy a lilting cyberjam with Hayley tonight. I'm also relieved that the the clamp on my voice has not been caused by a lack of practice.

What do you do when you encounter an empty outdoor stage and auditorium?

Give me a road, a park, a beach, a hill, an amphitheatre...to me it's an invitation to sing.

Tahunanui Beach's outdoor amphitheatre issued such an invitation last week. I started out with "Only Hope" (Switchfoot/Mandy Moore)...

There's a song that's inside of my soul.
It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again.
I'm awake in the infinite cold;
But You sing to me over and over again...
And I lift my hands and pray to be only Yours...
I know now You're my only hope.
When it feels like my dreams are so far,
Sing to me of the plans that You have for me over again...
I give You my destiny. I'm giving You all of me.
I want Your symphony singing in all that I am...
I know now You're my only hope.

A Princess Moment

I do have the video footage from July. It's not great - my unprepared accompanist provided some serious cringe moments on the organ - so my plan is to edit the footage into something less painful to discerning ears. As the state of my blogs show, I'm doing minimal computer work, so I doubt it will happen in an instant. The text is ready to go, with the title "A Princess Moment". Here's hoping you get to enjoy that moment with me.

YouPerform Contest results

2009-06-02T14:49:00.009+12:00

Yes, Elaine and I won the April edition of the Musicnotes.com YouPerform Contest. Thank you so much to everyone who voted for us. You can read the Musicnotes winners' interview here, and view the winning song on YouTube here.

If you missed the first part of the story, you can find out more about the creation of our Wedding Special here: Apple Blossom Wedding.

Apple Blossom Wedding

2009-05-02T19:57:00.006+12:00

Voting is now open for the April edition of the YouPerform Contest at Musicnotes.com. Who should win the prize worth US$100? Have your say by clicking here.

Voting closes May 15th (Central Standard Time).

The butterfly link has been disabled so you can view this poster in a larger format. Follow the text link above to vote.

More details on the creation of our Apple Blossom Wedding Special will be posted on BoutiqueNarelle on Friday, 8th May.

Who's the winner?!? -- updated

2009-04-29T11:00:00.002+12:00

29 April, 2009

Thank you so much to all those who voted for Elaine and I in the March edition of Musicnotes' YouPerform contest. There was such an enthusiastic response to the competition that the organizers have sponsored 2nd and 3rd place prizes for that and all future competitions provided there is a minimum of 10 entries. Clicking the above image will now take you to where you can view comments from the 3 winners and listen to their music.

I learned a lot from the experience and am very happy for the ladies who won those lovely music vouchers. I want one for myself, so Elaine and I have been working hard on our next feature, "I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time". We hope to have that recorded in time for the contest opening on May 1st.

--------------------------------------------------------

2 April, 2009

Can we do it?

On the first of the month, Musicnotes.com provide a free download of their chosen arrangement for the month. The rules allow for competitors to choose from 1000+ arrangements by Musicnotes staff, but most people go for the free one. Competitors have one month to prepare and film their performance and upload it to their YouTube account. Public voting begins on the first of the following month, closing on the 15th. The prize is awarded at the end of that month.

Narelle loves Musicnotes.com because it revolutionized finding and purchasing sheetmusic. The Musicnotes website offers a pile of other music-related features, one of which is the YouPerform monthly contest, for which this video was created. Elaine and Narelle enjoyed making it, and hope you enjoy listening.

You'll probably recognize the melody made famous by Cat Stevens in the early 1970s, "Morning Has Broken", which was based on a song by Scottish composer Mary MacDonald (1789 - 1872). The original lyrics for her hymn entitled "Leanabh an Aigh" were in Gaelic. When the hymn was translated into English by Lachlan Macbean, the song was renamed "Bunessan" after a Scottish village close to Mary MacDonalds hometown of Ardtun. Musicnotes didn't supply any of these lyric versions in their "Bunessan" arrangement, so we decided to go with the vocalise style.

New Zealand Folk Song website promo

2009-04-09T14:27:00.000+12:00

John Archer with the aid of other volunteers has put together this massive New Zealand folk song resource, featuring audio clips and free downloadable song lyrics and sheet music. The song lists are alphabetized, and there is also a search feature. Entries include modern, vintage, and historic songs, Maori waiata, ANZAC songs, tramping songs, train songs, Christmas songs, a list of the most recorded folk songs, and all are wonderfully researched and documented.

When preparing music for community programs, I find www.FolkSong.org.nz supremely helpful. It plays a song for me while I follow along with the lyrics and melody line. I can print the lyrics for me and the music for my accompanist. In short order, we have a new song added to our repertoire.

Here’s a big hand for the FolkSong band!
Thanks for all the work you've put into it, John!
It's a fantastic resource!

Ah-choo! Singin' with da 'Flu?

2009-04-09T13:47:00.005+12:00

New Zealand Folk Song has a Q&A feature.

What happens when a singer is booked to perform while in the grip of a nasty cold?

On this page
the saga is told
of Micheal's cold
and Tony's tonsil tips
for coping with
da dose an da throat ond a really off day.

Provides a check list for how to know if you can perform, and survival techniques for both cancelling or proceeding as planned.

A Card from the Queen

2009-03-04T21:50:00.013+13:00

I am delighted to send you my warm
congratulations on your One Hundredth birthday,
together with my very best wishes for an
enjoyable celebration.

Elizabeth R.

I have seen the famous telegram sent to centarian citizens of the former British Empire! These days, it comes in the form of a large card with a photograph of the Queen on the cover, a classy gold tassle down the spine, the royal crest inside, and the Queen's autograph.

No, I was not the recipient. Today Elaine and I had the privilege of being part of Kathleen Maloney's 100th Birthday celebration, providing the musical entertainment.

Elaine wore green for the Maloney clan and I wore pink because I always think of Kathleen Maloney as a rosy little lady. (See Rosy 99.)

We had a 50 minute wait before we performed due to the venue being so crowded there wasn't room for the piano, let alone musicians. When the guests had been fed,the staff suggested they transit to the lounge at the other end of Eileen Mary Retirement Home where the piano waited.

I put together a smiley Irish program for this sweet lady whom I've never seen without a smile on her dial. We gave her:

Carolina in the Morning
Side by Side
Sunshine of Your Smile
I'll Take You Home Again, Kathleen (1 verse & chorus)
Irish Eyes are Smiling (1 verse & chorus)
An Irish Lullaby
Peggy O'Neill
I'm Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover

and closed with her special request, the Crimond 23rd Psalm. It brought tears to her eyes. Seeing how much it meant to her, I had to cover a choky throat myself.

Kathleen's last task of the day was to let off 100 balloons, which she did with difficulty -- I've never seen balloons so reluctant to fly! The day was bright and sunny, but even the central courtyard wasn't protected from a playful breeze that proved anything but buoyant. Perhaps to mark her 101st birthday we should try getting high on helium?

Work completed, I scooted off to the tearoom to browse the after-feast. I gathered up a few souvenirs, including a collection of mini cream puffs, chocolate eclairs, and a luscious slice of chocolate cake. Okay, so I normally refrain from that much dairy, but I've certainly sung for my supper this week. I felt a treat was in order.

Tired but Happy

This week was the first time I've attempted bookings on consecutive days (yesterday was a full-on afternoon's entertainment at the Elske Centre). I managed both with aplomb, all praise to the Lord. Now for a few days rest!

Opera in the Park 2009

2009-02-21T12:15:00.006+13:00

Outdoor Music-Making -- Summer's Bliss

My list of fun things to do this summer looked like this:

My parents and I went on our bush walk and picnic, I found a marvellous swing that endowed me with proprietory rights for 9 days, and to my astonishment, I was blessed with attending 3 concerts, 2 of which were outdoor events.

Nephews and I playing shady characters on the swing. Yes, a bowl of cherries was involved. Swingsational.

Dad and I went to Nelson's Opera in the Park, a type of show I've been waiting half my life to attend. We arrived at the venue to the lively sounds of a terrific Nelson brass ensemble. I'll never forget the welcome of that as we proceeded from our car through the park grounds, in the venue gates, and across the field to our seats.

The official program was a classy New Zealand showcase (apart from the M.C. radio hostess trying too hard and the strange antics of mezzo soprano Helen Medlyn), with superb vocals from internationally acclaimed soprano Anna Leese (whose big sister and I once shared a bowl of birthday cake icing), a girl whose serene presence on stage is an experience indeed. I would have liked to hear more from Georgia Jamieson-Emms, winner of last year's Sealord Aria, off to seek a singer's fortune in Europe the day after this concert. She sang just one item, "Caro Nome" from Rigoletto.

Tenors Simon O'Neill and Ben Makisi got together for the first time since their 1st and 2nd placings at the Nelson Aria in 1994, and offered magnificent vocals along with amusing memories of emergency shoe-swapping. Their "Au Font du Temple Saint" moved me to tears. I'm a sucker for that melody...

Dad and I held Gold Patron tickets, with all the luxuries laid on. Dad even waved to himself on the big screen (I'd gone walkabout to experience the backbenches). It was a night to remember.

Arriving hatless, our neighbours found that desperation under the evening sun made them creative.

Last weekend, my parents and I took our deck chairs north to Central Hawkes Bay's prestigious back of beyond, the historic homestead of Oruawharo. The Lions fundraiser event has been running for three years. I attended the first one at the time I started voice lessons with Ileana Otto-Johansen, who is the musical director and featured soprano.

I stood in the shade of a mighty tree while people were arriving, and a man passed by whom I haven't seen in a while. I once sang in his garden. He waved at me in my heirloom skirt and white linen hat sporting feathers and flowers. "Are you performing this year?" he said.

The program runs for 4 hours, with 3 satisfying brackets of mixed opera and musical theatre songs, the first two separated by a 15 minute interval, and the second and third by an hour for tea. Those who paid $50 entrance were classed as prestige-ticket holders and enjoyed a restaurant meal cooked in the homestead kitchen and served under the trees at linen-draped tables. Those who paid $40 received a plastic-wrapped plate of salad, meat, and bread bun. We were quite happy with our personally serviced picnic hamper.

650 concert-goers mean a lot of cars, and the homestead grounds were well organized for coping with this influx. The wooden swing hanging from a very tall elm that I'd been looking forward to sampling was pre-booked --- gowned in white linen, clearly the sole property of the bouquet of pink roses resting among the folds. I found the intervals tedious, it being necessary for me to walk (deckchair malaise) rather than stand around talking, but I filled in some time with my own vocals down the far end of the paddock. As folk regathered for Session 3, a man maneuvering down the row behind mine said he'd enjoyed my music. He must have been socializing with the cars to have heard that, but it was nice to know I'd entertained more than myself.

Ileana's performances were wonderful, and so were her gowns -- 8 of the former, 3 of the latter. I was totally blown away by tenor Jason Parker, a 17-year-old with not much training (yet) but an incredible power and richness to his voice that I eagerly anticipate hearing again. I took quiet pleasure in listening to soprano Janet Smith and studying her demeanor. Having in recent months become happily acquainted with Andre' Rieu's relaxed, joyful style of classical music, followed by the bantering featured in Nelson, I felt a slight culture shock in the seriousness of the Oruawharo singers' presentations. The only time I saw Ileana smile on stage was before her last solo, the second to last item on the program. Janet had a sparkle that made her a pleasure to watch as well as a pleasure to listen to, a distinction that reminds me of the difference between my demeanor at my Town Hall debut and the way I handle gigs now after a year of working with Elaine Swanney. Ileana is a trained, experienced performer and a woman of strong character, so I figure she just sees opera as very serious business.

Ileana Otto-Johansen with guest artist Patrick Power (local tenor of international renown)

Summer's passive entertainment becomes a warm and pleasant memory as the year's program takes over. A sudden, unexpected improvement in my health has allowed me to dig into music preparations with enthusiasm, and bookings are beginning to dot my calendar. So then, on with the dance! May the melody of love be woven in the fabric of your days.

Musical Cheers

2008-12-26T11:10:00.005+13:00

After 2 months' break due to exhaustion and voice trouble, it feels so wonderful to be making music again. My sister Sarah was home for a mere 29 hours, and the weather was cold, damp, and windy, but we managed to find a spot on Taradale to record two of our favourite ballads for our family and friends before she flew south again.

The Purple Hoods spy out the Land

Roses Will Bloom Again

I find this song a great faith builder. When I'm hurting because my hopes have been dashed, or floundering because I've lost track of the vision for my life, it helps to remind myself, Only God knows how or when, but roses will bloom again. He has proved He's faithful. I can trust Him with my life and everything important to me.

The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen

"Aberdeen" was unrehearsed and turned into a big joke as we tried to remember the harmonies. What the wind did to my hair I couldn't have done if I tried. We hope you have as much fun watching as we had singing.

You can also join us on a jaunt down the road to the strains of "How Marvellous".

May you take the road to your own Aberdeen and find roses blooming there.
Best wishes, Narelle & Sarah

War Birds in Dannevirke

2008-09-26T19:29:00.008+12:00

Elaine and Narelle warm up at Elaine's piano before flitting off for a show at Rahiri, another in The War Years series.

Spring Calendar

2008-09-23T17:42:00.005+12:00

SPRING PROGRAMS

Pahiatua
Combined Churches Service
Operation Christmas Child promotion
5:30pm
Sunday, August 31st

Elske Centre
1pm, Tuesday, September 9th

Eileen Mary
2pm, Friday, September 19th

Rahiri
2:30pm, Friday, September 26th

Autumn Lodge
2pm, Friday, October 3rd

Elske Centre
1pm, Monday, October 6th
CANCELLED due to funeral.

Eileen Mary
2pm, Friday, October 17th
POSTPONED. Narelle & Elaine taking a breather.

Autumn Lodge
2pm, Friday, October 24th
CANCELLED due to funeral.

Sacred Music at
The Edwardian House
8 Victoria Avenue, Dannevirke
2:30pm
Labour Day
Monday, October 27th
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

TIP for purchasing Sheet Music

2008-08-25T13:39:00.002+12:00

I use Musicnotes.com as my primary source of sheet music, but I discovered this week that buying from them is only good value (for folks outside of the USA) if it's digital sheet music for instant download.

I wanted some music that isn't currently available in digital format, but was horrified when they slapped US$30 p&p on top of the book price.

A quick check with SheetMusicPlus.com located the same music with a much more comfortable shipping cost of US$4.49 (currently NZ$6.32).

I conclude that Musicnotes specializes in digital music, while SheetMusicPlus specializes in paper/books. I'll order my shopping accordingly in the future. = )

Elske Centre

2008-06-24T15:37:00.003+12:00

Tartan Lass

Queen's Birthday Weekend - Scottish Program

2008-06-01T11:51:00.002+12:00

Charlie assisting me with my costume.

Elaine Swanney and I performing at the Eileen Mary Retirement Home on Friday afternoon, May 30th.

There was another row of chairs situated behind the photographer, and staff and other residents peeped around the corners, their number increasing as the hour progressed.

I had SO much fun. So did the audience. I've never seen them so invigorated. They sang along and clapped and cheered. Mrs. Sedcole, who appears to be asleep in every photo Mum took, was nevertheless watching me with bright eyes every time I turned to look at her (she was directly behind me), and by halfway through the program, this old and fragile lady was actually sitting forward in her chair.

Clearly, we picked a good program! It included: My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean; I Love a Lassie; Stop Your Tickling, Jock; Roamin' in the Gloamin'; Bonnie Scotland, I Adore Thee; The Dark Island; Donald, Where's Yer Troosers?; Loch Lomond; My Luve is Like a Red, Red Rose; The Skye Boat Song; Westering Home; The Northern Lights of Aberdeen; Scotland the Brave; Highland Cathedral.

After 'Auld Lang Syne', Mrs. Buchanon commented that they always had that at the end of a community dance. "We couldn't go home until we'd sung 'Auld Lang Syne'," she said. I replied, "Now that I've sung it, am I allowed to go home?" There was a protesting chorus of no's.

I closed with 'The Lord's My Shepherd' (Crimond) and they seemed to know it better than I did. I only added it to the program the day before, so that's my excuse for not lilting over the tricky phrasing with precision. I'll work on that, as I'll certainly use it again.

They all LOVED the hat!

Wearing that hat was actually a bit of a hazard when travelling by car. I had to hold onto the feather tip so I could figure out which way to bend my head when entering and exiting the vehicle, and while in the car, I couldn't turn my head to talk to the driver. In the days of feathered caps, no wonder people rode horseback!

Hopefully I'll soon have some sound clips to add. Thanks for the photos, Mum! Elaine, I love working with you! The best praise must go to the Lord Jesus for enabling me to perform, because only 4 days prior I was in no condition to do anything. Truly, He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might He increaseth strength.

New recordings available

2008-06-01T11:48:00.003+12:00

Anzac video recordings are available on the audio page here. I will be adding wee bits of my Scottish program over the next few days.

Anzac Concert 2008

2008-05-01T13:06:00.008+12:00

Thanks, Dave, for your encouragement and for giving me the opportunity to be part of this program. Thanks, Dana, for turning all those black notes and lines into marvellous, majestic sound, and for demonstrating your enjoyment of what I do.

I didn't have anyone to film the show, so the best visuals I can offer are recordings of the rehearsal, available here, and views of my gown and cloak, available here.

At the rehearsal I tested the Anzac outfit itemized in the latter link [Boutique Narelle], including 6cm heels. I hadn't worn high heels on stage since the first time since I sang a solo in competition, aged 16. In those days, all high heels were stilettos. My knees wobbled so badly I nearly fell off my shoes and I declared that I would never sing again in high heels. With all the experience I've gained in the past year, I was ready to test out 'higher' ground.

I'm getting the hang of arraying myself for formal events. Sorry, no pics -- the camera that operates from the tripod with self-timer and flash was in the South Island. Girls, if you have family or friends who can help you get ready for an important occasion, you don't know how blessed you are. Anything I've achieved with my appearance has been figured out alone.

As usual, the ladies of the theatre company did a terrific job decorating the theatre. Streamers and strings of flags twisted and looped their way across the walls, interspersed with military and patriotic flags, creating an inviting and evocative atmosphere.

I was second on the program, which pleased me (no long wait trying to keep the vocal chords warm in the chilly backstage recesses), and I'm happy with how I did. I marvel at how the Lord sustained me that week to enable me to perform without the huge physical distress I laboured under last year. I had a glass of water at the side, which I did take recourse to between songs. I'd recently seen two professional singers apply the water treatment during their performances, so I figured it wouldn't be taboo for me to do it. The audience laughed when I said that throats don't acknowledge important occasions -- clearly nobody minded. I went into a spasm of shaking when I exited the stage and I had to sit down quickly, but my knees didn't wobble one bit while performing, and even when my accompanist took the second song slower than we'd practiced (meaning I needed more breath to reach the end of a phrase) and we got out of sync on the last page, we carried on and got it sorted without a blink, finishing with aplomb.

I was glad of a comfortable armchair backstage, happily one that had a good view onto the stage. Wrapped in my fleecy, satin-lined coat (a Boutique Narelle creation), I watched most of the show from there (whilst eating my picnic tea, since lunch had been at 11am), punctuated with amusing comments from Dana beside me, but some of the spoken items couldn't be heard backstage, so in the second half I ventured out into the auditorium to watch from there. My favourite parts of the program were...

Two of the Camo Girls from the first half featured in the middle of "Three from Company B" in the second half, giving the older girls time to remove the military overcoats and caps they'd started the number in (they wore violent pink sequins underneath). The little girls emerged dressed in pale blue, one from each side of the stage, with their arms holding around them a red, white, and blue flag. They stood together in the centre and unwrapped their arms to reveal a notice pinned to their tummy. One sign said AN and the other, ZAC. Floating their arms like butterfly wings, they danced about until they faced the back of the stage, posing there so the audience could see that one flag was Australian and the other was New Zealand, garnering a round of applause from the audience.

Dave and Alan hammed a comedy duo in Depression era caps and overcoats, a number that reminded me of the 1930s USA variety shows depicted in the movie "The Glenn Miller Story", the guys strolling back and forth across the stage in tandem while earnestly singing some ridicilous lyrics. The piece de resistance was the reading of a newspaper from 10 years ago, announcing the startling news that Dannevirke was now endowed with a woman mayor ("Whatever would come next, a woman prime minister?" said Alan. "That would be astonishing, but totally unbelievable would be a woman president of the United States!" answered Dave.), and the shocking announcement that petrol cost 50 cents per litre -- it's currently at NZ$1.89.

The show closed with "Now is the Hour" (lyrics in the following post), followed by the National Anthem (the gathering and I sang the first verse together; they sang the Maori version while I 'oohed' a descant I'd written the night before; I soloed the fifth verse), followed by the Last Post played with the spotlight on the New Zealand flag. Then in the silence and gloom, retired Lietenant Commander Bill Ingram intoned:

"They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them."*

The audience repeated, "We will remember them." And the concert was over.

I spoke to the bugler afterward, thanking him for his part and saying how much I enjoyed the patriotic ceremony and tradition of the closing moments, something of which our country has very little. He said thoughtfully, "I guess our country is still too young."

The ANZAC tradition, begun in 1915, has lived on for nearly a century. Every year the numbers attending the Dawn and Civic ceremonies multiply, young people, particularly children, replacing the returned servicemen who've died, honouring those who have served our country in times of conflict since that day.

New Zealand does a good job of remembering those who have fallen in battle, but freedom is for the living, and the future of this life and freedom we enjoy is daily compromised by unrighteousness in public affairs and private individuals. Rather than swerving into worship of our fallen ancestors, let's learn from the Anzac tradition -- let's stand up for what we believe in and remain faithful to the cause of righteousness. I felt very privileged to stand on the ceremonial stage with our nation's flag above my head, testifying unashamedly to the truth and power of the Lord Jesus Christ.

*From the poem "For the Fallen", by Laurence Binyon.

Anzac news report: Hawkes Bay Today.

Listen to portions of my program here. The recordings were made at the rehearsal. Due to the size of the media files, the limits of PhotoBucket, and my lack of technical knowledge (i.e. file squashing), I couldn't load the complete songs.

Anzac 2008 Lyrics

2008-04-30T14:56:00.006+12:00

When I think of Anzac Day, I think of all the goodbyes that had to be said to friends and loved ones, not knowing if they would ever see each other again.

NEVER SAY GOODBYE

If I could take this moment forever,
Turn the pages of my mind
To another place and time
We would never say goodbye.

If I could find the words I would speak them,
Then I wouldn't be tongue-tied
When I looked into your eyes,
We would never say goodbye

If I could stop the moon ever rising,
Day would not become the night,
Wouldn't feel this cold inside
And we'd never say goodbye.

I wish that our dreams were frozen,
Then our hearts would not be broken,
When we let each other go...

If I could steal this moment forever,
Paint a picture-perfect smile
So our story stayed alive,
We would never say goodbye.

Another thing I remember on Anzac Day is that when the world seems to be self-destructing, when all around us there is fear and anxiety, we need something bigger than ourselves to trust in and bring us hope.

NO MORE NIGHT

The timeless theme,
Earth and heaven will pass away.
It’s not a dream,
God will make all things new that day.
Gone is the curse
From which I stumbled and fell;
Evil is banished
To eternal hell.

No more night,
No more pain,
No more tears,
Never crying again.
Praises to the great “I Am”,
We will live in the light
Of the risen Lamb.

See all around,
Now the nations bow down to sing.
The only sound
Is the praises to Christ, our King.
Slowly the names
From the book are read;
I know the King,
There’s no need to dread.

See over there,
It’s a mansion prepared for me
Where I can live
With my Saviour eternally.

No more night,
No more pain,
No more tears,
Never crying again.
Praises to the great “I Am”,
We will live in the light
Of the risen Lamb.
We will live in the light
Of the risen Lamb.
Hallelujah to the risen Lamb!

NOW IS THE HOUR

Now is the hour when we must say goodbye.
Soon you'll be sailing far across the sea.
While you're away, oh, then, remember me.
When you return, you'll find me waiting here.

Dunedin editor Thomas Bracken wrote a patriotic poem in the early 1870’s, printed it on the front page of his newspaper, and offered 10 guineas for the best musical setting. A school teacher from Lawrence, Otago, John Joseph Woods, won the prize – and “God Defend New Zealand” was the result. The song was adopted as our national anthem in 1940.

GOD DEFEND NEW ZEALAND

God of nations! at Thy feet
In the bonds of love we meet,
Hear our voices, we entreat,
God defend our Free Land.
Guard Pacific's triple star,
From the shafts of strife and war,
Make her praises heard afar,
God defend New Zealand

Men of ev'ry creed and race
Gather here before Thy face,
Asking Thee to bless this place,
God defend our Free Land.
From dissension, envy, hate,
And corruption guard our State,
Make our country good and great,
God defend New Zealand.

Peace, not war, shall be our boast,
But, should foes assail our coast,
Make us then a mighty host,
God defend our Free Land.
Lord of battles in thy might,
Put our enemies to flight,
Let our cause be just and right,
God defend New Zealand.

Let our love for Thee increase,
May Thy blessings never cease,
Give us plenty, give us peace,
God defend our Free Land.
From dishonour and from shame
Guard our country's spotless name
Crown her with immortal fame,
God defend New Zealand.

May our mountains ever be
Freedom's ramparts on the sea,
Make us faithful unto Thee,
God defend our Free Land.
Guide her in the nations' van,
Preaching love and truth to man,
Working out Thy Glorious plan,
God defend New Zealand.

Listen to portions of my program here. The recordings were made at the rehearsal. Due to the size of the media files, the limits of Photobucket, and my lack of technical knowledge (i.e. file squashing), I couldn't load the complete songs.

ANZAC Concert at Fountain Theatre

2008-04-23T21:36:00.009+12:00

Anzac Variety Concert

4pm at the Fountain Theatre, Dannevirke
Friday, April 25th, 2008

Click image to enlarge.

Visit Boutique Narelle for a preview of my concert dress!

Shamrocking with the Old Folks

2008-03-18T17:01:00.003+13:00

Elaine Swanney and I provided the musical entertainment at the RSA Club today for a retirement home collaboration hosting an Irish party for old folks from Waipukurau, Pahiatua, and Dannevirke.

Some of the guests had found a green shirt or scarf. A few sprouted tinselly shamrock laurels. Nearly every staff member sported an emerald hat. Elaine looked a trick in an elf costume, but I forgot I had the camera with me!

Amy and Gemma McDonald brought three dancers over from Palmerston North for the Viking Choir’s Irish concert tonight, so they dropped in at the RSA, providing me with a convenient filler between my two brackets. Two of the girls tapped a lively but traditional style jig to a Lord of the Dance track, and the third girl did a barefoot scarf dance to what sounded like syllabus free dance music. The Dannevirke News reporter was clicking away with her camera by then, so I might get a news clipping in a day or two.

My first bracket opened with the lively “It’s a Great Day for the Irish”, followed by “If You’re Irish Come into the Parlour”, “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” with both verses, as I consider the chorus to be quite lack-luster on its own, and “An Irish Lullaby”, with suitable comments in between.

Prior to “If You’re Irish” I enquired if there were any Timothys or Pats present. Unfortunately I didn't think to ask for Kathleens when we opened the second bracket with “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen”. I later met two Kathleens, and the song absolutely made their day. I’m glad Elaine convinced me to do it. I hadn’t wanted to because I was sick of hearing it and it meant another long ballad to learn, but previous retirement home excursions showed how hugely popular it is and we thought it would be missed if we didn’t do it. I learned one verse and the chorus and we sang those twice, inviting folks to join in the second time round.

Next on the program was “Will Ye Go, Lassie, Go”, a bouncy number which didn’t flow as well as it could have because we added it to the program only a week before, had one practice with the chords written out for Elaine, and I had no music at all. It needs to go at a fast lick with a lively bass. We'll work on that.

I closed with “Be Thou My Vision”. Listening to Brian Hughes preach from Acts 6 last night, I realized I needed to say something before I sang it, something unashamedly pointing the way to Christ. I was nervous, but Mum, Dad, and I had prayed together last night and I wrote out what I needed to say. By this point in the program I seemed to have got over the hand trembles – here’s a good reason to eschew a hand-held microphone!...or to get more practice with one! – and to my surprise I actually remembered what I wanted to say and didn’t have to look at my notes (I had the a lyric sheet in my hand in case, and had to make use of it when I lost my way in “Irish Eyes”).

Having confirmed with the gathering that it was indeed Saint Patrick’s Day, I said, “Patrick brought a message to Ireland. ‘The only hope is in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life.’ This next Irish song speaks that same message.” Then I sang verses 1, 2, and 4. Elaine and I weren’t in sync for the lead-up notes at the beginning of each line. I’d only put the song into the program a week prior, and hadn't realized that the words on her music differed from what I was singing. Other than that, it sounded fine.

We socialized with the old folks for a wee bit before going home. Elaine’s in the Celtic Band at tonight’s Irish concert, so we couldn’t stay long, but I learned that I’d made one lady cry, and I had quite a chat with 93-year-old Kathleen Hughes from Pahiatua who, despite significant hearing difficulty, wanted to know all about me, something I’ve not so far encountered in old folks. (They usually prefer reminiscing.) She touched my dress, wanted to see my shoes, and was delighted when I pulled my wool shawl out of my bag – it had been too hot to wear it. I saw some heads perk up, so I walked down the room letting ladies here and there finger the fabric and admire the vibrant colours. Two of them inquired if I’d got it in Egypt, and another hoped it was Irish – it’s Ukrainian, but was perfect for the occasion.

I knew that my outfit would please the old folks, but it’s not a style that holds the usual attractions of the world, so I was interested when, shortly after I arrived at the club, one of the home staff, I think in her late 30s or early 40s, although it was hard to tell under the green lunch-pail hat and sunglasses, murmured with delight, “You look so…” She couldn’t seem to find a suitable word, but I understood her intention and thanked her. “Marvellous,” she finished.

I've enjoyed learning these melodic Irish ballads and finding out how well they suit my voice, and it’s good to know that I blessed people with my music and appearance, but most of all I hope that the real sunlight has shone through the windows of their souls.

Now for some chocolate!

Autumn Calendar

2008-03-09T00:12:00.002+13:00

AUTUMN PROGRAM

Monday, March 17th
St. Patrick's Day party
Dannevirke RSA Club
1pm

Friday, April 25th
Anzac Day Concert
Fountain Theatre
Dannevirke
4pm

Rosy 99

2008-03-07T22:49:00.005+13:00

Mrs. Swanney and I had the privilege this week of providing musical entertainment at the 99th birthday party of Mrs. Kath Maloney. She's the most beautiful 99-year-old I've ever seen. Rosy cheeked and bright eyed with pretty white curls, she sat beneath balloons and bright poster letters, flanked by a rainbow of flowers, enjoying her party with enthusiasm.

The guests sang along to our medley of old time favourites until general insistence that I give them a solo. I chose “An Irish Lullaby”. Mrs. Swanney, amazing lady, calmly pumped from her piano accordian whatever was requested. It’s a blessing not having to rely on an immovable piano, but also what marvelous freedom not needing music in front of you! I’m still building my repertoire, so haven’t managed to dispense with a lyric sheet yet. But I’ll get there.

Where Have All the Pianists Gone?

2008-02-24T00:18:00.002+13:00

I know a church that’s trying to find a way to record hymn accompaniments before their pianist gets too frail to play them. There are 3 other pianists in their 70’s who regularly play at local retirement homes. They won’t be able to play forever, and yet they are the only ones who seem to know the music that’s familiar to the old folks.

Songs from the war era, traditional folk ballads, sweetheart ditties – they’re easy to play and sing, and people doing so give the old folks great pleasure. I encourage you, young pianist – buy a book of old songs (see sidebar for links to online music stores), learn them, and offer your services to a rest home’s entertainment coordinator. It will give you valuable performance experience before an uncritical audience, a blessing to your community and service to the Lord.

As a child and teenager, I felt uncomfortable in retirement homes. I was shy and didn’t know what to say or how to handle their deafness and dementia. I wasn’t a confident performer, either. I’m pondering over what made this change, but in the meantime, I can only advise: keep working on it. Serve the Lord with gladness of heart – and this can be done sharing your joy and vibrancy with the old folk. They need your good cheer.

I was so blessed today to see how a roomful of tired old ladies brightened up when Mrs. Swanney and I gave them “Side by Side”, “Pack Up All your Care and Woe”, and the like. We performed their favourites and they would sing along, swaying in their chairs or patting their knees, applauding enthusiastically at the end. Two of them even got up to dance now and then. Mostly Mrs. Swanney played from the lyrics book Topsy (entertainment coordinator) had dug out of a cupboard for us, and I kept one eye on those lyrics and the other on the people I was singing to. I'll have to swat up on my words so I can start moving around the room.

Mrs. Swanney is my neighbour, a terrific musician in great demand in the community. She plays piano, pipe organ, piano accordian in the Celtic Band, and a horn in the Brass Band. We got chatting at a recent neighbourly housewarming party, and it looks like this is the beginning of a fun partnership. We've had two outings together this week and are planning an Irish program to share with the combined retirement homes’ St. Patrick’s Day party at the RSA on March 17th. They’ll all be wearing something green, and I’m looking forward to getting into the spirit of things with my shamrock dress. = ) The costumes are half the fun of performing!

Singing to the Dark Hills

2008-01-20T20:49:00.004+13:00

While holidaying with my family at the north end of Queen Charlotte Sound, I left our cabin in the bush as dusk was fading to night, and went for a wander along the shore in front of the old white homestead.

I’d seen photos of weddings Furneaux had hosted, the bride walking on her father’s arm past the stone fountain, down the path between the majestic trees on the smooth lawn, and making her eternal sacred vows in front of the shrubby pink roses overlooking the bay.

Dreamily I followed her down to the roses and watched the retreating reflections on the sea as the pale sky turned to shades of deep grey and purple. The silhouette of the hills, smooth and velvety, and the silver lapping water transported me across the world to Celtic isles, rocky shores, misty mountains…

I lifted my voice and sang out across the bay. The lyrics of “The Mists of Islay” were so perfect (view here)...it seemed I was really on the Scottish isle. I felt like Kiri Te Kanawa singing in a vast natural amphitheatre to a hushed and eager audience. And yet I was also alone, singing to the sky, the hills, and the water, testing the power of my lungs, pouring my soul into song.

I sang again, and other songs, until I became aware of human presence, hovering behind trees to my left. It wasn’t an uncomfortable feeling. Somehow I knew they’d come to listen. I sang on, smiling at the hills.

Somewhere in the middle of “The Impossible Dream”, I was rudely interrupted by the Furneaux dog, a small and indignant creature who apparently disapproved of my pitch. I turned to meet her, still singing, but she yapped more vociferously, so I stopped and humbly apologized. She grumbled and shook her head but scooted off down the beach with two men I assume had let her out when they exited the bar.

I turned back toward the sea, but couldn’t find the curtain back onto my stage. That rude creature spoiled my magic. I didn’t have the heart to sing any more. The invisible audience realized the concert was over and slipped back to their cabins. I meandered down to the deserted jetty to recover…and enjoy the memory of my magical concert to the dark hills.

2007-10-29T01:04:00.000+13:00

Will you play for me?

Are you a pianist, and do you love the Lord Jesus Christ with all your heart and enjoy playing sacred song arrangements?

Narelle is interested in working with an accompanist in a service ministry in New Zealand in the Tararua District.

Email Narelle at kyriellepublishing@xtra.co.nz

CONCERTO ANNULÉ, or perhaps Tissues and Issues!

2007-10-28T02:33:00.002+13:00

The director of the November “Music Through the Ages” concert has changed his mind about including me in his program. The saddest part was that he didn’t have the courtesy to tell me–I found out through a member of the choir after two weeks of phoning him and leaving messages which he didn’t answer.

Before I knew I wasn’t wanted, I heard two things via the grapevine: the program was now being performed on two nights, a Friday and a Sunday, and these dates were three weeks earlier than I had been told back in April. This made me realized I had to decide whether I would perform on a Sunday or not, and with the next two concert options open to me being Sunday programs, it’s a good thing I worked it through. My conclusion is that I'm prepared to do a sacred program on a Sunday provided it doesn't interfere with my Sabbath study. In this case, it wasn't sacred and it would interfere, so I was prepared to tell the director I would sing on the Friday but not the Sunday.

I also realized that with three weeks less to prepare than I’d planned for, it was doubtful that I was going to be able to do “I Believe In You”, considering I was struggling to produce a reliable top A. It seemed wise to alter my selection, so I chose instead Martin Luther's hymn, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God". It's a song that seems designed for a powerhouse male choir, its plonky, definitive rhythm not suited to a light soprano, but if the Viking Choir is singing "Dona Nobis Pacem" and another Latin piece a cappella, I figured I could do just as well with the lovely tune of AMF. I studied the four stanzas from two different English translations, and with a bit of mixing and matching and a very tiny rephrase, settled on three stanzas that are reasonably easy to understand, injecting exhilaration by raising each stanza a semitone. Luther's hymn has been called “the greatest hymn of the greatest man of the greatest period of German history”, thus creating for me an excellent progression to J. S. Bach's "My Heart Ever Faithful". =) I’ve enjoyed working on this program, but I don’t know when I’ll get to share it.

I recently purchased a CD by contemporary American soprano Kathleen Battle and was delighted to find “My Heart Ever Faithful” on it. It has a continuo accompaniment (rather than piano), which makes it supremely delicious (I love cello). The first time I sang along, I got quite a high. =) It’s also inspiring to hear such an accomplished performer sing it.

Kathleen also sings “Du Bist Bei Mir” on that recording. I’ve procured the sheet music and have started learning Charlotte Church’s sacred version, “If Thou Art Near” (does anyone know who wrote the lyrics for that?). Dad was delighted when he heard me singing it because his mother used to perform it. He hadn’t known what it was called, but the melody evoked pleasant memories for him.

“I Sit Beside the Fire” almost got chucked from my repertoire in September. My teacher didn’t have the entire book of Donald Swann’s Tolkein arrangements, so the Elvish pronunciation and translation was missing. The English lyrics were fine, so I (foolishly) took the song on trust and proceeded to learn it. But as I worked on the difficult Elvish lyrics, I began to feel increasingly uncomfortable singing something I didn’t understand. I couldn’t delete the verse from the rest of the song because it was set as an alternate melody creating the song’s climax. I mentioned this to Dad and a friend, and they suggested I look it up on the internet. I had tried that previously, but had searched for the song title, not the Elvish lyrics.

Googling the first line turned up both a pronunciation guide and the translation, which revealed the song was a hymn of worship to a star goddess! Having just seen Louie Giglio‘s “Indescribable” DVD presentation on the magnitude and magnificence of the heavens created by our God, there was no way I could give credit to anyone else. Distressed that the Elvish words now seemed well and truly stuck in my head, it was dump time for that song until Dad suggested I rewrite the Elvish part. Bless you, Dad! I didn’t get any sleep that afternoon, but I did produce a rewrite that I like so much I’m prepared to make the song a Narelle standard.

I turned the Elvish verse into something more meaningful, managing to match Tolkein’s style and theme fairly well. Donald Swann’s arrangement actually blends two different Tolkein poems, so dropping the Elvish hasn’t created any great Tolkein heresy. It works really well for me now. The lyrics are so emotive and the melody supports them so well. I would happily sing it a cappella. Actually, I don’t like Swann’s finale, so I’d probably close a cappella anyway.

Interestingly, placing clean new lyrics over the bad ones is what has enabled me to get rid of the Elvish from my head. As I type this post, I can’t remember even the first line. I’ll leave it forgotten. =)

As it turned out, the director didn’t want to talk to me, so I didn’t have to talk to him. My preparations weren't a useless exercise, though, because I learned some important lessons. I hope you, too, have learned something from reading this. = )

LYRICS

2007-10-28T02:24:00.000+13:00

A Mighty Fortress is our God

Martin Luther

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

With might of ours can naught be done, soon were our loss effected;
But for us fights the Valiant One, whom God Himself elected.
Ask ye, who is this? Jesus Christ it is.
Of Sabbath Lord, and there’s none other God;
He holds the field forever.

His word above all earthly powers, no thanks to devils bideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him Who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever.

My Heart Ever Faithful

J. S. Bach

My heart ever faithful
Sing praises, be joyful,
Thy Jesus is near;
Away with complaining,
Away with complaining,
Faith ever maintaining,
My Jesus is here;
My heart ever faithful
Sing praises, be joyful,
Sing praises, be joyful,
Thy Jesus is here.

Etcetera, variously put together through nine pages.

I Sit Beside the Fire

J. R. R. Tolkein/Donald Swann/Narelle Worboys

I sit beside the fire and think of all that I have seen
Of meadow flowers and butterflies in summers that have been;
Of yellow leaves and gossamer in autumns that there were,
With morning mist and silver sun and wind upon my hair.

I sit beside the fire and think of how the world will be
When winter comes without a spring that I shall ever see.
For still there are so many things that I have never seen:
In every wood in every spring there is a different green.

I sit beside the fire and think of people long ago,
And people who will see a world that I shall never know.
But all the while I sit and think of times there were before,
I listen for returning feet and voices at the door.

Oh, who will sing my song with me? and walk this path along with me?
To see the flowers and feel the wind, to smell the sky and taste the rain,
To join our hands with tenderness and hearts with loving-kindnesses,
To speak the tears and sing the joys, and sing the joys.

I listen for returning feet and voices at the door.

You gotta hear those last two lines with the music…utterly haunting and gorgeous to sing.

Carolyn Ballinger LYRICS & Sheet Music

2007-09-04T22:52:00.000+12:00

Carolyn returned to Australia at the end of July and is settling back into home and church life. If you like her songs as much as I do, you'll be wanting the sheet music. You can order them from her at carolyn.ballinger@gmail.com or write to 3 Anaba Street, Toowoomba, Queensland 4350, Australia.

The lyrics for her songs are printed below.

ONLY YOU

You left your rightful place as king
to dwell with undeserving man.
Your humble birth in a quiet stall
was part of God’s redeeming plan.

Chorus:
Only you, only you care this much for me,
Lord Jesus, no one else but you,
And if I were the only one on earth,
Only you would have done it all just for me.

You were falsely charged and condemned to die,
yet the words you spoke were few.
Your only plea was to God in heav’n:
“Forgive them, they know not what they do.”

When you died, your body was laid in a tomb
and many thought it was the end.
But on the third day you conquered death;
you rose never to die again.

MY CHILD

So many questions, so many fears, there’s nowhere left to hide.
So many doubts and countless tears there’s no more peace inside.
But you can be released, you can leave them all behind.
Just come unto Me and you’ll forever be My child.

Chorus:
I’ve loved you from the beginning of time.
I love you, even now I’m by your side,
And nothing will, or ever can separate you from My love.
You will forever be My child.

There may be storms and times of darkness, but you don’t need to fear.
There may be times of grief and pain that seem too hard to bear.
But you can come to Me, My arms are always open wide.
No matter what comes, you will forever be My child.

Operation Christmas Child 2007

2007-08-21T18:54:00.001+12:00

The busy season is in full swing, with Operation Christmas Child 2007 presentations running around the country-side. See the following post for more details of our part in the jog. Our territory is from Pahiatua to Waipawa, and our aim is for 400 boxes. Last year Dannevirke alone managed 80. Here's a photo of Dad and me with those 80 before we shipped them off to the Auckland warehouse.

If you'd like to fill a shoebox or volunteer at a packing station, check out www.SamaritansPurse.org or if you're in New Zealand, freephone 0800 684 300.

-------------------------------------------

A report on the results of the 2007 mission in this region may be found at www.NarelleWorboys.blogspot.com. Look for Mount Shoebox. Ed.

My Child in a Shoebox

2007-08-21T08:47:00.002+12:00

My Dad and I have done two Operation Christmas Child (2007) presentations this month, with other bookings to local churches/schools/clubs flooding in. I am so enjoying working with my Dad. Due to my chronic illness, it's been more than decade since I was involved in any family ministry. There's just me at home now (I have 4 siblings) and it's really important to me to be involved in what my parents are doing, particularly my Dad.

Sunday morning we did a double-service marathon at a local church. Dad did the early service and Mum and I joined him for the 2nd, at which Dad and I alternated speaking, and I gave the closing comments and sang "My Child," accompanied by Mum. It appears that that song, combined with OCC's Good Samaritan approach to helping impoverished children, moves folk to tears every time. We gave out around 40 empty shoeboxes to be filled, and the minister's wife took a pile of extras in anticipation of further interest.

When we got home, I collapsed on the couch while Mum and Dad ate lunch and we all decompressed. I was on sensory overload! -- so many people, so many conversations, so much happening, so much noise -- the hardest part was the youth group being permitted carte blanche with the music equipment in the 'sanctuary' after the service, competing with each other to see who could make the most noise, even playing different songs at the same time. Talk about a rock party. There's a speaker in the foyer, so despite the soundproof glass doors, it wasn't possible to get away from the noise.

I treasure a comment Dad made as we wound down. He said that as he got to the end of his 1st service speel, he realized he hadn't figured out how to draw it to a conclusion because I usually do that. He missed me! And he said he really likes the way I sing. It means a huge amount to know that he values me, that I'm useful to him. The joy of working together in harmony is a blessing without price.

I'm always astonished at how I can produce a nice sound during performance/under pressure even though my rehearsals may be less than marvellous. Do microphones enhance the voice? I had the benefit of excellent accoustics at the Town Hall, but I'm not sure you could say that for the church. Sorry, I didn't get that videoed -- although there's sure to be a tape of the service. I did record my final rehearsal with Mum on Saturday night. Here's the video link:

http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=NW-MyChild-c070818.flv

Dad's been invited to do his OCC presentation for the Youth Group on Friday night. I'm not invited because the youth group leaders don't think the teenagers will appreciate my music. That's okay -- I deserve a rest. = ) Ironically, song leader Moala Withey, of rock band "mana3" fame, liked what I did so much that she invited me to take the lead microphone for the closing hymn, "Great is Thy Faithfulness".

Later, after the crowds around our OCC booth had dissipated somewhat and I had a chance to sit down and eat some breakfast (at 12 noon!), I met youth group member Sarah, whom I'm guessing is about 14 years old. She came to sit beside me for a chat. Her reason was a bright orange notebook in her hand. She gave this to me, confiding that she'd written a song. I read through this and offered encouragement to find a way to persevere with her music studies (she quit piano after a year because she didn't get on with the teacher...I understood perfectly, having had the same teacher) and figure out a melody to put to the lyrics. Sarah was delighted when she heard that I'm doing the OCC presentation for the Girls Brigade this Wednesday, saying her sister and friends would also be very happy to hear that news.

I was specifically invited to do the whole GB presentation, "because you're a girl", they said, but I asked that Dad come along, because he's as much part of this as I am. We're a team, we work well together, and I like us working well together. = ) So I get two days rest, then a wind up to perform again, hopefully not complicated by a visit to the dentist a few hours beforehand!

Music Week with Tessa and Emma McGeorge

2007-08-20T08:55:00.000+12:00

August 12th to 18th, 2007

The McGeorges describe the week with numerous adjectives...productive, wonderful, brimming with fun, fellowship, laughter, tutoring, recording, downloading, and of course singing.

I add a few more to that: intense, stimulating, exhausting. But I enjoyed every minute of it. It was a challenge to retain my prestige as the "real" singer when I was so busy focusing on them that I didn't warm up or rehearse my part properly. It was a great learning experience for me as a teacher. Not knowing what skill level the girls had, I'd decided to wing it rather than plan all the lessons, which to my surprise worked well (it takes some effort to smother my perfectionist nature ;). It was also a great preparation for my performance on Sunday, seeing as other commitments had diverted me from my music for a few weeks.

We used both audio and video recordings to study our progress. The girls weren't at all happy about viewing themselves, but quickly saw what a valuable asset it was. We had a huge amount of ground to cover, as they needed the basics of support, breathing, projection, stage presence, etc. I pushed them fairly steadily, using "Dona Nobis Pacem" as a training tool and each of them working on one of Carolyn Ballinger's songs. We're all pleased with the progress they made. Here's the link to a video of our best effort:

http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=DonaNobisPacem07-070818.flv

The three of us producing a smooth end note to each verse is quite significant, and I am so proud of Tessa for keeping her eyes from flitting to window and ceiling and a multitude of other places and remembering to smile.

We didn't have any lessons on Friday, using the day to just hang out together, going shopping (I believe 4 music disks were purchased!) and watching a movie (guest favourite, "A Walk to Remember").

That evening I took the opportunity to do some serious study with Mum on our presentation of "My Child". I did record a few takes of that which turned out to be a bit of a giggle, but I decided you'd think better of me if I uploaded a 'correct' version. = ) See MY CHILD IN A SHOEBOX post.

Songuine Swinging Again

2007-07-14T22:40:00.000+12:00

I've been rehearsing 2 songs by Carolyn Ballinger for my Operation Christmas Child program -- "My Child" and "Only You". Carolyn is a 22-year-old Australian, a former homeschooler with a degree in piano performance, who has been touring with CTI Music Ministries (USA) for the past year. See www.ctimusic.org Her summer outreach in Singapore is about to conclude and then she'll be returning home. I love Carolyn's songs -- lyrics that reach all the way to that deep, needy spot, sweet melodies, and gorgeous accompaniments. I hope she keeps composing!

I've started work on my program for "Music Through the Ages" in November. I will be singing "My Heart Ever Faithful" by J. S. Bach; "I Sit Beside the Fire", a poem by J. R. R. Tolkein which Donald Swann set to music circa 1967 (see "The Road Goes Ever On" at www.donaldswann.co.uk/songcycles.html), quite delightful; and "I Believe in You", an Il Divo/Celine Dion piece. I learned last year how important it is to regularly reassure the people we love that we believe in them and support them in their endeavours. It's not necessary that I sing a modern song (there will be plenty of recent music on the program, I'm sure), and I'm very happy exploring Bach and Handel, but I really wanted to sing it as soon as I heard it, and the show director already knew the song and wanted me to sing it, too. It's important to me that I not just tickle people's ears with a pleasant sound, but that I lodge a purpose to my singing that will give them something to think about.

I'm gearing up for my teaching debut in August, a live-in week of coaching with Emma and Tessa McGeorge. I know from past experience that if you want to learn something well and quickly or refine and define a certain skill, teach it! Having had just 6 sessions with a voice professional, I'm going to encapsulate what I've learned by passing it on. I know it's going to be a fun week -- and it won't just be the students who learn heaps!

New Zealand, My Homeland -- ANZAC rehearsal

2007-04-28T15:19:00.000+12:00

ANZAC Day is tomorrow, and yesterday we rehearsed for the ANZAC concert at the Fountain Theatre in Dannevirke.

ANZAC Day is a public holiday in New Zealand, a day set aside to commemorate the New Zealand and Australian soldiers who died during the Gallipoli landings in Turkey in 1915 during the First World War. See http://www.anzac.govt.nz/ and www.nzhistory.net.nz/war/711 for further details.

Every New Zealand city and country village has a cenotaph inscribed with the names of the fallen from their community, and on ANZAC Day those names, and the names of soldiers from subsequent wars, are honoured by a public parade and wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph. New Zealand’s defense forces are kept busy providing uniformed personnel for fly-overs and as escorts, guards, and guest speakers.

In recent years, the Dawn Service (5:15am) and 9am Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony, traditionally attended by representatives of community clubs, associations, and schools, have become extremely popular for families and young people to attend. Rather than letting it fade into oblivion, the public have declared it is fashionable to remember the past. As an old soldier said, "A new generation are taking an interest in the battles that helped shape New Zealand's sense of nationhood." Long may we remember, for he who refuses to study the past is condemned to relive it.

The motto of the day is “Lest We Forget”, and the emblem is the red poppy. For the week before April 25th, members of the Returned Servicemen’s Association are out on the streets selling this fabric lapel pin to raise funds for the RSA. The poppy is a reference to the famous poem by Canadian John McCrae titled “In Flanders Fields.” See www.greatwar.co.uk/poems/inflanders.htm for text of poem.

My contribution to helping people remember not to forget is two brackets of songs in the afternoon concert. After my success at the Irish concert six weeks ago, I was given carte blanche on my choice and length of program.

The result:

First Half:
For Anzac Day (by E.D.T.)
Finlandia (by Jean Sibelius)
The Last Farewell (by Randy Sparks)

Second Half:
New Zealand! My Homeland! (by Robert J. Pope)
Recessional, or Lest We Forget (by Rudyard Kipling and Reginald de Koven)

I will place the lyrics and program notes in the concert post.

The first bracket is very hard to sing because it’s in a low register and very broad, particularly “Finlandia”. I haven’t found the secret yet for ensuring “Finlandia” is turned on full (my warm-up takes 30 minutes already). The director was delighted with my first bracket, but I knew I could do a lot better.

I stumbled through the song introductions with retired Naval officer Bill Ingram. He was almost word perfect (so far he’s been unable to get his tongue around Jean Sibelius, and keeps referring to me as Nerrily), but as he said to me later, he gets to read it all, while I’m doing it by memory. I’d better have it right by sing time, though! The singing has been my focus, so the speaking part has gained far less attention than it deserved. At least I’ve got a reasonable grip on the tone (you’ll be glad to hear that, Sarah! And thanks so much for working on it with me!). We’re not using microphones but everyone could hear us perfectly, and I didn’t feel any strain from projecting.

The strain and stress of the past month and the voice problems of the last week culminated in a stunning presentation (incl. lyric memory loss at the start of the fourth verse, for which Wendy kindly paused and gave me a prompt) of the Kipling “Recessional”. As I was singing I sensed the rustle and murmur of the venue go totally still. I had them and I knew it. A powerful feeling.

When I took my bow, the awed applause was rounded off by voices acknowledging that for those three minutes I had held them in the palm of my hand. Director Dave Murdoch climbed the platform steps to tell me as much, and as the next performers crowded onto the stage and Dad called after me that I had forgotten to collect my mp3 recorder from the front of the stage, Alan Holmes said with wink in his voice, “What’s that, then? Were you miming?!”

It's strange, though. When I listen to the recording, I'm not sure why they were impressed. Perhaps that’s something to do with my listening apparatus being inside the head that’s making the noise.

Yes, Katrina, I love your shirt, but I’ve decided after studying these pictures that it really is too big for me. For on-stage events, sparkle is good, so I’ll just have to get myself another shirt for rehearsals. Once I earn some money, that is. =/ And concert gowns entering the New Creation list shall be subjected to the sparkle test.

Hey! The above phrase, which I’ve just capitalized, would be a good label for my designs, don't you think? Narelle Elizabeth Worboys and her aims for Boutique Narelle...

ANZAC Day Variety Concert

2007-04-28T15:17:00.000+12:00

Dannevirke Fountain Theatre
Wednesday, 25 April, 2007

Compered by LT CDR Bill Ingram (retired)

The theatre was full, a nod to the organizers altering the time from a 7pm to a 4pm start. (The majority of this event’s patrons are at an age when they do not like to leave their cosy homes after dark.)

It was an honour to stand under that flag and sing for my country, and it was even more rewarding to sing God-honouring songs in a theatre where respect for righteousness is conspicuously absent and the name of God is regularly blasphemed.

Bill and I rambled through our introductions in fine style, although Bill is probably embarrassed that there were murmurs from the audience at his interesting rendition of “Jean Sibelius”, but at least he realized that his first effort at my name wasn’t right and managed to find the correct version on the third try, while the audience chuckled and I stood there grinning. I was delighted that after his stilted rehearsal readings (which had me fretting about my speech-writing), he came to life for the real thing and helped me play the audience for some good laughs.

It went thus:

FIRST HALF OF PROGRAM

Bill: (Escorts Narelle on stage.) Please welcome Narelle Worboys.
Narelle: Last time we were together I was wearing that uniform you have on!
B: It almost fitted you, too. [Audience laughs.] That was for a couple of nautical songs at a few retirement gatherings. Today you’re going to sing the first three songs as a medley. Why don’t you tell us something about them.
N: I discovered “For Anzac Day” in a Dominion Songbook dating back to my mother’s intermediate school music classes in the 60s.
B: So the book has been around for a while, and the song even longer.
N: If you know anything about its history, please tell me.
B: [Points to self incredulously.] Can’t help you there, sorry. [Audience chuckles.] “Finlandia” is a famous anthem written by Jean Sibelius in 1899.
N: A prayer from a much-divided, fought-over piece of land.
B: “The Last Farewell” has quite a history with you, doesn’t it?
N: Yes, and it’s allowed me to meet some rather famous people. Have you heard of the New Christy Minstrels?
B: Yes, a popular band of the 60s, still performing and recording today.
N: Have you heard of Barry McGuire?
B: His song “Eve of Destruction” knocked the Beatles off the #1 spot in 1965.
N: Twenty years ago he sang “The Last Farewell” at the Dannevirke Town Hall. Captured by its haunting theme, I went home to write the lyrics in my poetry book.
B: And when you wanted to sing it at this concert, you decided to try and locate the source.
N: I’d been trying to find the music for quite a while, actually, but hadn’t thought to do a general internet search for the songwriter, whose name I knew was Randy Sparks.
B: Randy still sings with the New Christy Minstrels, and so does Barry.
N: I’ve been swapping emails with both of them about the song’s history and what they’re up to now. You will be able to hear the New Christy Minstrels’ version of “The Last Farewell” on their Greatest Hits CD which is being released in the next few weeks. [Murmur from audience.]

The marcasite bracelet I’m wearing belongs to Isabel Worboys (my mum). It was given to her on her 21st birthday. It looked good with the outfit, but I liked the sentimental value of it, too.

MEDLEY of 3

For Anzac Day

E. D. T.

Honour we the true and brave,
Who, their lives for us unsparing,
Danger daring, sorrow sharing,
All for King and Country gave.

May we loyal comrades prove,
Bravely for the right contending,
Truth defending, gladly lending
Life to win the world for Love.

Finlandia

Jean Sibelius

This is my song, O God of all the nations,A song of peace for lands afar and mine.This is my home, the country where my heart is.Here are my hopes and dreams, my holy shrine.But other hearts in other lands are beatingWith hopes and dreams as true and high as mine.My country's skies are bluer than the ocean,And sunlight beams on clover leaf and pine.But other lands have sunlight, too, and clover,And skies are everywhere as blue as mine.O hear my song, thou God of all the nations,A song of peace for their land and for mine.

The Last Farewell

Lyrics by Randy Sparks
Music: The Water is Wide

I’m going away at eventide
Across the wild and windy sea.
I bid you stay, stay here by my side
And share a last farewell with me.

Through snowclad mountains proud and tall
Or a thousand miles ‘cross the burning sand,
Our last farewell then will I recall
When I’m alone in a far off land.

A wandering song is all I know,
Yet I love you more, more than words can tell.
I hear the call and I’m bound to go.
I leave you now with a last farewell.

Click here to view "The Last Farewell" from the ANZAC Medley:
http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=35225df2.flv

To my horror, there are a couple of points in the medley where I sound off key, which has reminded me of the last concert I attended at this venue when acclaimed soprano Jenna Baxter was on the verge of being off key, and young pop singer Anna Sinclair was very badly off key for a sustained fortissimo. They were both singing to a recorded soundtrack, and I supposed at the time that the foldback speakers weren’t arranged so they could hear properly. I had a live accompanist, but I still managed to sound less than accurate – at least, in the video recording from a camera which, while being less than excellent in its visuals, has so far provided reasonably faithful sound. This is a mystery into which I shall explore more purposefully before I’m asked to sing at that venue again! I do a better job recording with my mp3 player in my lounge. Please do listen to the Town Hall recordings for a more faithful representation of my sound than the Anzac clips provide.

Another interesting facet of that venue’s mechanical attributes is that despite a rehearsal with two technicians present in the lighting box, they let me walk out of the lights during “The Last Farewell.” When they didn’t fix it, I backtracked, but on the video I reckon I look like I’ve momentarily forgotten which concert I’m at and have slipped into an Irish jig. This is, of course, my perfectionist opinion which the passage of time may mellow.

Rebecca Gowan, who was operating the camera for me, came backstage and worked a major hair job on me between acts (big thanks for both those services, Rebecca!). Here’s the picture she took on our practice run the day before. Having had my hair cut short before the Irish concert, I didn’t have any long tresses to wind into anything close to 1890s style, so I was going for an 1850s look, a blend of a young Queen Victoria and the Swedish soprano, Jenny Lind, with the assistance of a $2 Shop hair piece to provide the shape and bulk.

SECOND HALF OF PROGRAM

B: (Escorts Narelle on stage.) Please welcome again Narelle Worboys. Narelle is going to sing “New Zealand, My Homeland.” Another Dominion Songbook piece, this song brings to mind New Zealand of a century ago.
N: My friend, the late John Meacheam, who was born in 1921, loved to tell me about his boyhood when Te Rehunga was covered in thick bush [murmur of recognition from audience]. The birds were so numerous that the fella standing next to him had to shout to be heard.
B: That’s a lot of birds. [Audience agrees.] This is the New Zealand that thousands of soldiers left to defend and never came back to.

New Zealand, My Homeland

Robert J. Pope

New Zealand! New Zealand! My fondly loved homeland,
Thy mountains and forests are dear to my heart.
I roam with delight o’er thy hills stern and craggy
Whose mantle of manuka perfumes the breeze.

New Zealand! New Zealand! My heart yearns towards thee.
I love thy cool glades and thy fern-shaded streams,
Thy evergreen forests, majestic and silent,
With rata’s red blossoms and clematis crowned.

New Zealand! New Zealand! May fate ne’er compel me
To long for thy charms under alien skies,
But life’s journey ended, the hope of my heart is
To mingle my earth, dear New Zealand, with thine.

[Note: I cut out the third verse which has some archaic language in it. Having it in would have threatened the piece with tedium, especially seeing as the accompaniment was very basic.]

Click here to view "New Zealand, My Homeland":
http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=6e04e2ce.flv

B: Narelle’s next song is called “Recessional”. Rudyard Kipling, the author of “Jungle Book”, wrote this Recessional during Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, a time that celebrated the great power of the British Empire.
N: But Kipling chose not to celebrate. He wrote a lament to the pride that births and fuels war, and a warning that while pride is near so is war. It was a prophecy of what was to come, and the song of a heart pleading with that haunting phrase…
B: “Lest We Forget.”

Recessional (Lest We Forget)

Words by Rudyard Kipling
Music by Reginald de Koven

God of our fathers, known of old,
Lord of our far-flung battle line,
Beneath whose awful Hand we hold
Dominion over palm and pine.
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget, Lest we forget!

The tumult and the shouting dies,
The Captains and the Kings depart.
Still stands thine ancient sacrifice,
An humble and a contrite heart.
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget! Lest we forget, forget!

Far-call’d our navies melt away.
On dune and headland sinks the fire.
Lo, all our pomp of yesterday
Is one with Nineveh and Tyre!
Judge of the nations, spare us yet,
Lest we forget, Lest we forget!

If drunk with sight of pow’r we loose
Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe,
Such boasting as the Gentiles use,
Or lesser breeds without the law,
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget! Lest we forget, forget!

For heathen heart that puts her trust
In reeking tube and iron shard,
All valiant dust that builds on dust,
And guarding calls not Thee to guard,
For frantic boast and foolish word,
Thy mercy on Thy people, Lord!

Amen.

Click here to view "Recessional":
http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=7a8919ae.flv

For the finale, I joined the rest of the cast on stage singing “Now is the Hour” with the Lions Pride, opening up at the end for Gary Mitchelmore, former Army dentist, to play “Last Post” on his cornet. The curtains came together on the last notes, and we were marshaled by the stage director to move forward to take a bow, something he hadn’t told us to do at the rehearsal. By the time we were reassembled and the curtain opened again, the audience were halfway to the door! Dave started the bow anyway, and when a few noticed the curtains had opened again and the cast were doing, er, what? they dropped their coats and handbags and offered a smattering of applause. The curtains were promptly closed again, covering my giggles.

I managed the actual vocals without any hiccups, although while waiting backstage with sore, dry throat, there was no certainty of that. What is noticeable is that my body language got disconnected from the songs, making some look like an afterthought. A bit like those old movies that got out of sync with the picture. My head was there, but the rest of me seemed to have decided its job was done and it could go home.

Home and quiet is what I need for a while. A bit of hibernation. It always takes me six weeks to recover from a big project. My next concert is scheduled for the end of November. Until I start preparations for that, I’ll be focused on catering for the blossoming interest in www.ScriptHaven.blogspot.com, conducting BoutiqueNarelle.com into reality, rectifying my winter wardrobe situation, and making Operation Christmas Child – the fill-a-shoebox mission – happen in this district. Perhaps I will also find the time to prepare some music manuscripts for sale on Songuine.

Auf Wiedersehen, friends!

Town Hall Debut as Soloist

2007-04-16T16:00:00.000+12:00

On March 19th, 2007, the Dannevirke News featured on its front page a quarter-page review of the St. Patrick's Day Irish concert at Dannevirke's recently renovated Art Deco theatre. The article was artistically written -- they have a new reporter who seems to have a reasonable grip on language and logic -- and the tenth paragraph declared:

"Narelle Worboys made her Dannevirke Town Hall debut with an effortless performance of "The Quest". Her crystal-clear voice soared easily to the back of the audience during this beautiful rendition and was appreciatively received."

View "The Impossible Dream":
http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=a863b977.flv

The gown I wore for "The Impossible Dream" -- referred to as "The Quest" in the program -- was created for me by Deb Watkins. After 5 or 6 years of dreaming about it, I now have a Dress.

In the second half of the program (for which the reporters did not stay), I sang "The Mists of Islay", a soaring, melancholy melody which my teacher Ileana Otto-Johansen says suits my voice perfectly. The accompaniment is very pretty, and I loved the eerie, echoing quality I got from singing in the expanse of the Town Hall.

View "Mists of Islay":
http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t103/Songuine/?action=view&current=9110890d.flv

I was amused to hear the compere, a high school geography teacher masquerading as Liam the Leprechaun, comment on the song's Irish charm, and asked him just how Irish does he think the Hebride Islands are? The song can't be considered purely Scottish, though, because the songwriter, Wishart Campbell, was Canadian.

I later explained to those in the audience of Scottish birth that I felt having an Irish-born great-grandmother whose daughter married my Scottish-born grandfather permitted me a certain amount of license when selecting my program.

For this Celtic lament I made a gown of pale green fabric embroidered with shamrocks, layered with a delicate crocheted shawl with long wispy fringe drooping over my fingertips. I was going for a misty look (dry ice is something that sensible singers avoid). Ileana said it made her think of fairies. Someone else said they thought of an angel with droopy wings (the strong lights made the dress look white). When I emerged from the wings, Mum heard an audible intake of breath from the two ladies seated next to her in the balcony, which she interpreted as surprised pleasure.

My outfits are distinctly different to the usual soloist garb of slinky, revealing dresses, so while I aim to match the theme of my music, I'm also making a statement for a web project that is being incubated by friends Genevieve, B'Ethel, and I -- Boutique Narelle, an internet helpline and resource for modelling modesty, the how-to of dressing with stylish practicality and feminine modesty.

The Bush Telegraph declared my performance was achieved with "no sign of nervousness", so I won't tell any secrets there. They seemed under the impression that I hadn't sung in public before. While I do have extensive performing experience with my siblings, it is quite a different thing to be alone on a large stage, faced with a large and unknown audience and solely responsible for the sound they will hear.

To give you an idea of the magnificence of our Town Hall, here are some photos of the interior taken during rehearsals. This blog doesn't accommodate sound bites, nor does my video camera do the acoustics justice. Suffice to say that the hall attracts bookings from nationally-recognized producers because it has a reputation for having the best acoustics outside of a main centre in New Zealand.

I was quite overwhelmed by the response to my singing. So many people came up to speak to me. Strangers shook my hand. People gave me hugs (thankfully that lot weren't strangers). And my Dad told me he cried when I sang "The Impossible Dream". I was very happy with what I achieved, and that people liked it so much. And I was very, very tired.

After the show, I came across all that was left of Liam the Leprechaun...

Lyrics for Irish Concert

2007-04-15T10:48:00.001+12:00

The Impossible Dream

Music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion.

In this song, Don Quixote explains his quest and the reasons behind it. In doing so, he captures the essence of the play and its philosophical underpinnings.

To dream the impossible dream,
To fight the unbeatable foe,
To bear with unbearable sorrow,
To run where the brave dare not go.

To right the unrightable wrong,
To love pure and chaste from afar,
To try when your arms are too weary,
To reach the unreachable star!

This is my quest, to follow that star,
No matter how hopeless, no matter how far;
To fight for the right without question or pause,
To be willing to march into Hell for a Heavenly cause!

And I know if I'll only be true to this glorious quest,
That my heart will lie will lie peaceful and calm
When I'm laid to my rest,
And the world will be better for this;
That one girl, scorned and covered with scars,
Still strove, with her last ounce of courage,
To reach the unreachable stars.

The Mists of Islay

Music and lyrics by Wishart Campbell

Aah….
Lost in the mists of Islay.

Through a veil of bygone years;
Through the exile's hidden tears;
One dear vision oft appears,
Out of the mists of Islay.

Waters break on rocky shore;
Sea winds sighing as of yore;
Sea birds crying as they soar
Over the mists of Islay.

Isle mem'ry home to me,
Nevermore thy hills I'll see.
Evermore my heart will be
Lost in the mists of Islay.

Aah….
Lost in the mists of Islay.

Maestro Baby

2007-04-15T10:28:00.000+12:00

This is my nephew Joshua in the winter of 2006.

His mother's piano is one of his favourite toys.