Anna Leese Joins DSO and City Choir for Spectacular Return

The Dunedin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is set to welcome back soprano Anna Leese after a four-year absence. She will perform with the DSO and the City Choir Dunedin at the iconic Town Hall in Dunedin as part of the orchestra’s 2025 International Series. This collaboration promises to be a highlight of the concert season.

The concert will feature two significant works: Francis Poulenc‘s Gloria and Camille Saint-Saëns‘s third symphony, often referred to as the “Organ Symphony.” Poulenc’s Gloria, composed after a transformative religious experience in 1936, showcases a unique blend of solemnity and spirited exuberance. This piece reflects his return to Roman Catholicism after visiting the shrine of the Black Virgin of Rocamadour, a pivotal moment in his life and career.

In contrast, Saint-Saëns’s third symphony features the organ in a prominent role, demonstrating the composer’s skill as an accomplished organist. While the symphony does not bear the title “Organ,” the instrument plays a crucial part in driving the composition, particularly in its climactic moments. The organ’s subtle introduction in the first movement builds anticipation, leading to a powerful finale.

Conductor James Judd will lead the performance, promising a thrilling experience for audiences. Judd’s direction, combined with the talents of Leese and the combined forces of the DSO and City Choir, is expected to create an unforgettable evening of music.

As anticipation builds for this concert, audiences are encouraged to secure their tickets early, as this event is likely to be a popular draw. The collaboration between these esteemed musicians and ensembles highlights the vibrant cultural scene in Dunedin, reinforcing its status as a hub for performing arts.

This performance not only marks Anna Leese‘s return to the stage but also serves as a celebration of powerful music that resonates with both personal and communal experiences. The combination of Poulenc’s sacred work and Saint-Saëns’s symphonic masterpiece is poised to leave a lasting impact on all who attend.