MGC Choir hit high notes in South Island competition

Marlborough Girls’ College Choir has returned from Timaru with plenty to celebrate after competing at the 2026 South Island Cadenza.

The 35-strong group, made up of 33 singers, a pianist and percussionist, travelled south with teacher in charge of music Christianna Morgan and choir manager Rhonda Stewart.

After earning a silver award last year, the choir performed at the Sacred Heart Basilica determined to build on that success.

“There was some tough competition out there, and of course we always hope for a gold, but a silver placing is good too,” Christianna says.

“For us, it was about taking things up a notch. The whole point is to have fun, and we received so many compliments from people in the crowd about how much the girls were enjoying themselves.”

The choir has already won major trophies this year for Choral Art and Best New Zealand Piece. Christianna says the focus is always on preparation, teamwork and enjoying the experience.

“It’s about preparation and coming together to show what our strengths are – and enjoying the event. Our last song got a standing ovation from the crowd, which was an amazing feeling. It was our first one, so that was really special, and the girls had a blast.”

The repertoire featured technically demanding pieces from different cultures, something Christianna believes helped the choir grow both musically and as a team.

“Every time we attend, we see the friendships that the girls make and their sense of pride and achievement during the event,” she says.