Songs of WWI: An Anzac Day Concert

Independent opera company, Operantics, will be holding a special Anzac Day recital, Songs Of World War I, featuring a selection of tunes from the period.

“It’s just really beautiful music that isn’t performed very often…there’s just something so hopeful about it. It’s during a period of immense turmoil and distress… but all of the music is very much looking forward to when everything’s better”, says Artistic Director Katie Miller-Crispe.

Miller-Crispe searched historical records to source relevant music and has put together a mixed program of songs – some familiar, some obscure; some comical, some poignant. Among them are stirring favourites such as It’s A Long Way To Tipperary and Battle Hymn Of The Republic, but also one or two cheeky numbers.

“We’ve got one very fun piece called If You Can Fight Like You Can Love Then It’s Good Night Germany. It’s all about a girl talking about how her boyfriend is definitely going to beat the ‘hun’ because he’s a very good lover,” says Miller-Crispe.

The performance will take place in St Stephen’s Uniting Church in the heart of the CBD. It’s the same venue in which the company recently performed the St Matthew Passion as well as other prior concerts.

“It’s a beautiful place to sing and the acoustics are gorgeous. It’s fairly accessible and it provides a beautiful setting,” says Miller-Crispe. “We did this program for Remembrance Day last year and there was not a dry eye in the house.”

The recital style performance will include ensemble pieces, solos, and duets with piano accompaniment and will appeal to anyone with a penchant for salon music and a sense of nostalgia.

Tea and coffee will be served afterwards.

Apr 25. St Stephen’s Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie Street, Sydney. $20-$40+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.operantics.com.au

By Rita Bratovich