Letter from the Mayor - Garry Moore

I am delighted to write this letter of support for the Cathedral Choir. The Cathedral Choir is as old as the Cathedral itself and is one of the city's most important cultural assets. The tradition of having a choir has become an important part of the city's heritage.

The Choir has a wonderful and varied repertoire, ranging from the sixteenth century to the present day. Along with the cathedral and collegiate chapel choirs of Great Britain, it is a part of a unique, centuries-old tradition that has no equivalent outside the English-speaking world. Christchurch Cathedral has the distinction of being one of only two cathedrals outside Britain to have its own Choir School.

My own son, who was a member of the Cathedral Choir, and I have kept my links with them since that time. Under the tutelage of Brian Law the growth in the standard of the choir has been phenomenal. I believe that the opportunity to go to England and travel to eight cathedrals that have a choral tradition will increase the knowledge and understanding of each individual choir member and this will reflect in the quality of the choir.

The members of the choir will be great ambassadors for New Zealand, and the choir will promote Christchurch, Canterbury, and New Zealand, as a cultural destination. I hope that you agree with me that they fully deserve your financial support.

Garry Moore
MAYOR

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