News Release

Auckland Mayor Sings with Mormon Choir

Auckland Mayor Len Brown was a guest soloist with a 140 voice Mormon choir last night at Town Hall, part of a Christmas celebration that also included performances from the Auckland Symphony Orchestra.

Mayor Brown sang 'O Come All Ye Faithful' with the orchestra and choir, whose members come from across Auckland. Audience members were encouraged to join with the choir in singing many of the carols.

Mayor Brown also spoke last night about the tornado at Hobsonville the day before [Thursday 6 December], extending condolences and sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives. He also mentioned those who were injured in hospital and the 150 familes who were displaced from their homes, pledging to have them all "home for Chirstmas."

The Latter-day Saint choir and Auckland Symphony Orchestra performed several Christmas carols at last night's event, with special arrangements by local Latter-day Saints Freeda Sorensen, Niu Ta’ala and Ivoga Green.  

The orchestra and choir were conducted by Ivoga Green and Peter Thomas with seven additional guest soloists including the talented young vocalist Siobhan Grace.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been providing a choir for the event for 14 years.

Elder F. Michael Watson of the Church’s Pacific  Area Presidency and his wife attended the concert.

Style Guide Note:When reporting about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, please use the complete name of the Church in the first reference. For more information on the use of the name of the Church, go to our online Style Guide.