Mā te wā - Alanah and Blake's Farewell

Mā te wā is a farewell concert celebrating the next chapter for two emerging classical singers, Alanah Jones and Blake Scanlen.

This September, soprano Alanah Jones will move to London to begin a Master of Music in Classical Voice at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, and baritone Blake Scanlen will begin a Master of Arts in Solo Voice Ensemble Singing at the University of York.

Having sung together for years in St. Matthew's Voices, the professional vocal quartet at St Matthew-in-the-City, Alanah and Blake are delighted to share one final concert together before departing overseas.

Featuring the St. Matthew's Voices, Mā te wā will present a programme of the quartet's favourite choral works from over the years, interwoven with solo items from both Alanah and Blake. The concert celebrates both the music that has shaped their journeys and the friendships and community that have supported them along the way.

Repertoire highlights include Goodall's Love Divine, Wood's O Thou the Central Orb, and Mozart's Laudate Dominum. The programme is rounded out with music by Byrd, Vaughan Williams, David Hamilton, the Wehi Whānau and more.

Join us for an afternoon of beautiful music as we celebrate the past, look towards the future, and wish Alanah and Blake every success in the next stage of their musical careers.

Sunday 9th August, 4pm

St. Matthew-in-the-City

Alanah Jones, soprano

Blake Scanlen, baritone (Leader of the Voices)

Nicholas Forbes, piano, organ (Director of Music)

St. Matthew's Voices Octet

This concert is a fundraiser to support Alanah and Blake as they prepare for the next stage of their musical journeys in the United Kingdom.

Moving overseas to undertake postgraduate study is an incredible opportunity, but it also comes with substantial costs. Between tuition, relocation, accommodation, and everyday living expenses, the financial commitment is significant for both performers.

All proceeds from the evening will be shared equally between Alanah and Blake to help with the costs of relocating to the UK and establishing themselves as postgraduate students and emerging professional musicians.

Your support will make a meaningful difference. Most importantly, your presence at the concert is a wonderful way to celebrate this exciting new chapter with them. Thank you for being part of the journey.