Wellington Choir Tour Hits the High Notes

Novelist and composer Paula Coelho once wrote, “Singing is like a celebration of oxygen”– and our Boys’ School Performers’ Choir Tour to Wellington in June was exactly that. It was a vibrant, unforgettable celebration of music, connection, and shared breath.

Excitement filled the air as tour members gathered at the airport under a perfect blue sky. Before boarding, a burst of spontaneous singing at the gate turned heads and drew warm applause from fellow travellers. Wellington welcomed us with unseasonably sunny weather, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Day one included a scenic lunch in the Botanical Gardens and a ride down the iconic Cable Car, disco lights and all. At Seatoun School, Principal John Western and his community gave us a warm welcome before the boys delivered their first formal concert with poise and musicality. That evening, they met their billet families at Wellesley College, returning with smiles and stories already flowing.

By day two, the chatter was non-stop through ice cream outings, delicious meals, backyard games, and plenty of laughs. A ferry ride to Te Papa provided one of those “You can’t beat Wellington on a good day” moments. Outside the Gallipoli exhibit, the choir performed a moving rendition of Sons of Gallipoli, captivating visitors and staff. Inside, the displays stirred awe and reflection.

After lunch with Wellesley’s choir (and a rousing birthday song for our choral leader Jakob Webber), the boys joined in a collaborative workshop, singing Funga Alafia and In the Jungle before performing a full-length concert to the Wellesley students earning enthusiastic applause and glowing feedback.

The final day began with warm farewells, billet families praising the boys’ manners, friendliness, and genuine character. At Weta Workshop, the group was immersed in the artistry of film prosthetics and armour. Our guides, both named Liam, left them with the parting advice: “If something sparks your passion, chase it with all your heart.” In return, the choir performed May It Be from The Lord of the Rings. A fitting tribute in such a setting.

Our last stop was Scots College, where another workshop and performance wrapped up a whirlwind tour filled with music, learning, and connection.

Thanks go to our support team Head of Music Georgina Jarvis, Catherine Linnell, and Teresa de Vries for their leadership and care. The boys returned with unforgettable memories, inspired to keep singing, keep sharing, and keep celebrating the joy of music.