Christchurch Singer Naomi Ferguson to Perform with DSO on Nov 15

Christchurch singer Naomi Ferguson is set to take the stage with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) on November 15, 2023, for a concert titled “Simply the Best.” This performance marks a significant collaboration as Ferguson joins the DSO to explore a repertoire that celebrates iconic female singers from the past and present.

Ferguson describes the experience of performing with an orchestra as akin to “body surfing,” where the moment of catching a wave brings a sense of elevation and freedom. Her enthusiasm for the opportunity is evident: “If someone asks me to sing with an orchestra, I’m like, ‘yes, you tell me what it is later, but I’m just a straightaway yes.’”

This concert is not new territory for Ferguson. She previously collaborated with conductor and arranger Tom Rainey and the Auckland Philharmonia and Christchurch Symphony, which provided her with a taste of what to expect. The upcoming concert will feature a diverse selection of songs, ranging from legends like Tina Turner and Diana Ross to contemporary artists such as Taylor Swift and New Zealand stars Bic Runga and Margaret Urlich.

Dynamic Repertoire and Collaboration

Rainey, who has led the DSO’s last three crossover concerts, has curated a challenging and exciting selection of music. He acknowledges the difficulty of the pieces for the orchestra, stating, “Some of the parts are quite tricky and as it is also new music for them to play.” He aims to keep the musicians engaged, ensuring they remain on their toes.

Guest artists Ferguson, Dunedin’s Arlie McCormick, and Auckland’s Jackie Clarke have been given the freedom to choose songs that resonate with them personally. Ferguson expressed her excitement about the variety of songs she could select, performing works from Edith Piaf to Dolly Parton. One standout piece she plans to include is “Wuthering Heights,” which she recently performed for a friend’s birthday. Despite never having sung it before, she felt compelled to incorporate it into the concert.

The opportunity to collaborate with fellow singers is particularly appealing to Ferguson, who often performs solo. “That’s what’s lovely about ‘Simply The Best,’ getting to work with Jackie and Ali and the student vocalists,” she said.

Ferguson’s musical journey began at a young age, with her first solo performance as a child. She recalls a moment driving to church, singing along in the car, and asking her mother if she was a good singer. Her mother’s modest response kept her grounded. Over the years, Ferguson participated in various musicals and choirs, eventually leading her to pursue a degree at Christchurch’s former CPIT Jazz School, where Rainey was one of her tutors.

A Personal Approach to Music

Ferguson describes her approach to music as personal and unique, influenced heavily by her jazz education. She believes in interpreting songs in a way that reflects her individuality rather than simply replicating others’ performances. While she will embody the essence of artists like Carole King and Kate Bush during the concert, she intends to infuse her own interpretation into their well-known works.

Her passion for performance is evident as she articulates the joy of connecting with an audience: “It feels like a gift that I can give to people.” Singing has always been an integral part of her identity. She shares that often, she sings without even realizing it, and her enthusiasm has led to family rules against singing at dinner to maintain some semblance of decorum.

In preparation for performances, Ferguson employs a meticulous approach. She creates a hand-drawn spreadsheet to track her progress with each song, ensuring she is well-prepared. Rehearsing in her living room, she often practices while walking to nearby locations, utilizing her time efficiently to refine her craft.

After two decades of focusing solely on singing and teaching, Ferguson transitioned into art management and now works at the University of Canterbury. This career shift allows her to be selective about her performance opportunities, enabling her to prioritize artistic fulfillment over financial necessity. She relishes the privilege of choosing projects that inspire her, such as her upcoming collaboration with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra for “Amsterdam: The Jacques Brel Song Cycle.”

Ferguson’s recent explorations into classical music, particularly through collaborations with artists like Deborah Wai Kapohe, have opened new avenues for her artistry. “It’s just been like a portal to another universe has opened up to me,” she reflects on this exciting phase of her career.

As the concert date approaches, Ferguson is eager to share the stage with her fellow artists and the DSO, celebrating the legacy of female musicians who have shaped the music landscape. The “Simply the Best” concert promises to be an engaging experience for performers and audiences alike, showcasing a vibrant array of talent and musical expression.