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Complete List of Works by Anthony Ritchie



Opus 10124 Preludes (2002)
These 24 Preludes for piano represent a new direction for the composer, and are challenging to play. They cover a wide variety of moods and characters, paying homage in places to Bach, Chopin, Debussy and Shostakovich.
Available from the composer


Opus 67A Bugle Will Do (1995)
for orchestra
This piece commemorates the hardship of war through the example of Charles Upham. Its 4 sections include haka-like rhythms in the battle scene, the desolation of prison, a lyrical, pastoral section and an exhilarating finale as peace breaks out.
Available from the composer


Opus 15A Folk Lament (1984)
for organ
Evokes a funeral in the countryside, drawing on elements from both Maori and Hungarian folk music traditions. Composed in an avant garde style, it is demanding for the perfomer without being too difficult.
published by Nota Bene


Opus 7A Mid-term Trio(1981)
for clarinet, viola and piano


Opus 28eA Poem Just For You (1989)
for SSA, flute, cello, piano
written for high school girls' choir
Available from the composer


Opus 5A Shakespeare Overture(1981)
for orchestra


Opus 96Ahua (2000)
for solo soprano, mezzo soprano, tenors(2), baritone, large choir, orchestra and Maori kapahaka group
A mix of opera and oratorio, with a dramatic libretto by Keri Hulme and strong, evocative music. It incorporates elements of Maori music, and a kapahaka group contributes traditional and original music to the work. 'Ahua' tells the story of Moki, one of the first of the Ngai Tahu tribe to settle in the South Island.
Available from the composer


Opus 72Albatross in Flight (1996)
for orchestra
A short orchestral fanfare, describing the flight of the albatross, a famous resident of Dunedin Peninsula. It is light and frothy, and good for the opening of a concert.
Available from the composer


Opus 122A Survivor from Rekohu (2006)
for flute, piccolo, and Maori instruments (Toanga puoro) - 1 performer
A programmatic piece, lyrical and dynamic for a versatile performer. Written for Alexa Still.
Available from the composer


Opus 47As Long as Time (1990)
for SATB a cappella
These four songs explore different states of mind in a quirky and emotional manner. They are reasonably challenging without being too difficult.
Available from the composer


Opus 38Ashburn Fragments (1989)
for piano
A work in four movements, Ashburn Fragments is intense and obsessive in tone, requiring a professional pianist.
Available from the composer


Opus 16Autumn Concerto(1985)
for piano and orchestra


Opus 17Balkan Bagpipes (1985)
for amateur orchestra
This is a lively and rewarding play for an amateur orchestra. It evokes the music of East European bagpipes, which the composer experienced while studying in Budapest, in 1984.
Available from the composer


Opus 98bBartok Medley (1999)
for school orchestra
A lively selection of folk songs collected by Bartok, arranged for school orchestra (secondary, though a good primary school orchestra could play it). More challenging parts for solo violin and piano.
Available from the composer


Opus 25Beginnings (1987)
for orchestra
A colourful and challenging piece of programmatic music describing the birth of the composer's son, Tristan.
Available from the composer


Opus 46aBehind Our Masks (1991)
for piano and voices
This school show takes a realistic and humorous view of adolescent relationships; the music is jazzy in style, and singable by just about anyone.
Available from Playmarket


Opus 113Bele Doette (2004)
for soprano and oboe
Bele Doette is based on a 12th century chanson. The oboe part freely develops motifs introduced by the soprano.
Available from the composer


Opus 52Berlin Fragments (1992)
for soprano and piano
This powerful and substantial work uses text from 'Berlin Diary' by Cilla McQueen to examine the contrast between beauty and violence.
Available from the composer


Opus 45bBirds and a Steam Train in the Catlins (1991)
This short piece was inspired by a journey through the Catlins area, south of Dunedin, mixing bird call with the imagined presence of a steam train.
published by The Centre for NZ Music, in the volume entitled '1st 15: A Selection of Piano Music by NZ Composers', 1996


Opus 53Brass Quintet (1992)
for trumpets, horn, trombone, tuba
This work contains a variety of moods and styles, from the quiet and calm slow movement, to the gritty and strong variations of the theme 'Down in the Brunner Mine'. For a professional group.
Available from the composer


Opus 137aCat in the Dark (2008)
for treble voices, clarinet and piano
A short fun song for children's choir setting a poem by Margaret Mahy about a cat.
Available from the composer


Opus 137bCat in the Dark (2008)
for treble voices and piano
A short fun song for children's choir setting a poem by Margaret Mahy about a cat.
Available from the composer


Opus 94 Caroline Bay Suite (1999)
for piano
Simple pieces describing memories of Caroline Bay in Timaru.
Available from Bellbird Publications


Opus 50Children and Adults (1992)
for mezzo-soprano, clarinet & piano
These songs explore the lives of children and adults, looking at their different ways of viewing things. They are quite approachable, and use elements of popular music.
Available from the composer


Opus 124Clarinet Quintet (2006)
for clarinet and string quartet
A substantial work in three movements - a lively and energetic first movement - a brooding slow movement - and a restless uneasy finale.
Available from the composer


Opus 114Clouds (2005)
for solo trombone with brass band
An evocative piece, written for Dave Bremner and the National Band for the World Champs, 2005.
Available from the composer


Opus 91Coming to it (1999)
for orchestra and speaker, music with poems by Sam Hunt
'Coming to It' was composed with Sam Hunt's performance poetry in mind (although the work can be played with other speakers). The music attempts to empathise with the spoken word while being able to stand alone at the same time.
Available from the composer


Opus 89Concertina (1999)
for violin, piano and squeezebox
A continuous work which explores folding movements among other dance themes. There is a colourful variety of music, ranging from the mysterious and dark opening section, to the obsessive gig towards the end.
Available from the composer


Opus 8Concertino for Piano and Strings (1982)
for piano and string orchestra
An early work, exhibiting the influence of Shostakovich and Bartok. Approachable for both players and audience.
published by Waiteata Press


Opus 70Concerto for Soprano Saxophone (1996)
for solo soprano sax. and orchestra
A quirky but also soulful piece for an unusual and beautiful instrument. Reasonably easy to play.
Available from the composer


Opus 34aConcerto for Three: The Coming of Age(1988)
for violin, cello, flute & string orchestra


Opus 98a Dance around the World (2000)
for school orchestra
In six sections, this tuneful piece is designed for school performers, and explores different styles of dance music around the world.
Available from the composer


Opus 89bDance Suite (1999)
for violin and piano
This work is re-arranged from the dance work 'Concertina' (opus 89) written for Dan Belton. It is in six movements: slow dance, quick dance, whales, sad dance, scherzo, gig. A lively and varied collection of pieces, suited to professional performers.
Available from the composer


Opus 28dDear Examiner (1989)
for SSA, flute, cello, piano
A humourous and catchy song, written for high school girls' choir
Available from the composer


Opus 90bDedication (1996)
for cello
A challenging cello solo which encompasses a variety of moods. It was composed for a friend's wedding, for performer Euan Murdoch.
Available from the composer


Opus 127Diary of a Madman: A dedication to Shostakovich (2006)
for orchestra
A collage of quotations from the Russian master, woven into a colourful fabric.
Available from the composer


Opus 44bDogwobble (1990)
for SAB choir and piano
A nonsense song designed for easy learning by amateur choir, accompanied by a flexible orchestra.
Available from the composer


Opus 44Dogwobble and Other Songs (1990)
for SAB choir and flexible orchestra
Four songs designed for easy learning by amateur choir, accompanied by a flexible orchestra. Includes the nonsense song 'Dogwobble'.
Available from the composer


Opus 93Double Concerto for Bass Clarinet and Cello (1999)
for bass clarinet, cello and orchestra
The slow movements explore issues of life and death, while the two quick movements provide an energetic and bright contrast. The wide range of both solo instruments is explored.
Available from the composer


Opus 66Down in the Brunner Mine (1995)
for brass band
This piece is a set of variations on the NZ folk song ' Down in the Brunner Mine', and is gritty and strong in tone. Suitable for A and B grade brass bands.
Available from the composer


Opus 76Five Dunedin Songs (1996)
for tenor and guitar
Intimate and expressive settings of poems by Lonie and Hall. Simple in textures but demanding in performance, and ranging in mood from the capricious 'Stone Woman' to the desolate 'Collection Day'.
Available from the composer


Opus 3Five Songs of Colour(1979)
for soprano and piano


Opus 119Flipside (2005)
for piano duet (4 hands, 1 piano)
Two contrasting and colourful pieces aimed at about grade 8 level.
Available from the composer


Opus 56Flute Concerto (1993)
for solo flute and orchestra
An attractive, extrovert piece. Plenty of life and contrast. Piano reduction available also.
Available from the composer


Opus 56cFlute Concerto (1998)
for solo flute and piano
An attractive, extrovert piece. Plenty of life and contrast.
published by Bellbird Publications


Opus 135Flute Sonata (2008)
for flute and piano
A sonata in 3 movements that captures many different characters of the flute and is accompanied by an exciting piano part.
Available from the composer


Opus 106Four Bagatelles for Percussion and Viola (2003)
for percussion and viola
This work consists of four short pieces in contrasting moods, for professional performers
Available from the composer


Opus 34bFour Duos for two violins(1988)
for violin


Opus 27four e.e. cummings poems (1988)
for SSAA a cappella
These songs are unconventional in their choral writing and are reasonably demanding in performance. They attempt to capture the quirky and thought-provoking nature of the poems in musical terms.
published by Wai-te-ata Press


Opus 132Fours into Twelve (2007)
for four double basses
Available from the composer


Opus 138French Overture (2008)
for orchestra
A substantial overture using a slow fast slow structure. Written while the composer was visiting Paris.
Available from the composer


Opus 98cFrom Mountains to Sea (2000)
for school orchestra
The music traces the South Canterbury landscape from the mountains, via rivers, lakes, over farms and the animals, to the sea.
Available from the composer


Opus 81From the Southern Marches (1997)
for solo SSTB, large choir and orchestra
This major work contains a mixture of musical and literary sources, and is eclectic in style. The choir has plenty to do, but none of it is too demanding technically. It is a work which transcends its regional origins.
Available from the composer


Opus 49Goodbye to Blues (1991)
for symphonic band
A lively and slightly jazzy piece that shakes off the 'blues' that sound at the start. Designed for a youth concert band.
Available from the composer


Opus 79Guitar Concerto (1997)
for guitar and orchestra
Unlike most guitar concertos this one is scored for full orchestra and is large in scale. Requiring amplification, the solo part nevertheless holds it's own against the orchestra. Likewise, the orchestra gets a decent play in a work of sparkling colour and ideas.
Available from the composer


Opus 54bHe Moemoea (1992)
for voices and piano
Designed for quick learning, this lyrical song has proved popular with choirs and soloists.
Available from the composer


Opus 54dHe Moemoea (1992)
for mezzo soprano and piano
This lyrical song has proved popular with choirs and soloists. It has been re-arranged for mezzo soprano and piano.
published by Bellbird Publications


Opus 60High Tide at Clyde (1993)
for flute, violin, piano, percussion, guitar
Musical for amateur performers, designed for school audiences.
Available from the composer


Opus 41Hurting(1990)
for piano


Opus 86Johnny Come Dancing (1998)
for mixed choir and piano (4 hands)
Designed for easy learning, this song is like an Irish gig, folky in places but essentially modern. Pianists need to be grade 8 or above. Originally written for various groups to sing, it can, nontheless, be sung by one single, mixed choir.
Available from the composer


Opus 22bJourney through Eastern Europe (1987)
for amateur orchestra
This is an accessible work based on East European folk tunes, and is designed for amateur or school orchestras.
Available from the composer


Opus 65Journeys (1995)
for orchestra and schools groups
Journeys was a project with the aim of fostering interest in the orchestra and encouraging composition in schools.
Available from the composer


Opus 3bLament for Barney Flanagan (1980)
for baritone and piano
A lively and humorous setting of James K. Baxter's classic ballad about the owner of the Hesperus Hotel.
Available from Bellbird Publications


Opus 3cLament for Barney Flanagan (1980)
for bass and piano
A lively and humorous setting of James K. Baxter's classic ballad about the owner of the Hesperus Hotel.
Available from the composer


Opus 40Le Vierge, le vivace, et le bel aujourd'hui(1989)
for SATB a cappella


Opus 84Leaf (1998)
for piano
A reflective series of pieces for piano, including a sad waltz, composed for choreography by Dan Belton.
Available from the composer


Opus 26Little Quartet (1987)
for flute, clarinet, viola & piano
After a dark and brooding opening, this piece develops into a lively and quirky exploration of an unusual instrumental combination.
Available from the composer


Opus 104Magnificat (2001)
for SATB a cappella
This Magnificat is a relatively simple setting, designed for liturgical use, and using the Latin text.
Available from the composer


Opus 112Meditation (2004)
for viola and piano
A simple, lyrical piece written for my wife and first performed on our wedding day.
Available from the composer


Opus 133aMeditation for violin and piano (2008)
for orchestra
Takes an ancient Chinese poem as its inspiration. Creates a simple calm sound world.
Available from the composer


Opus 51bMelancholia (1991)
for guitar
A short and easy piece for guitar, sad and intimate in mood.
published by Pro Arte Publications


Opus 74dMemories(1996)
for four instrumentalists


Opus 87Memories of Budapest (1998)
Sextet for violins, violas, cello and horn
A very active and exciting centre section framed by two slow and reflective sections, evoking sound pictures from the composer's stay in the Hungarian capital. Written for professional performers.
Available from the composer


Opus 65bMoa music (1997)
A collection of 18 songs by Anthony Ritchie and Suzanne Court, aimed at pre-school and junior school age. Lively and tuneful songs on the theme of NZ animal life, ranging from extinct moa to domestic cats and dogs. The recordings involve a colourful mixture of piano, guitar, synthesizer and various sound effects to enhance the images of the songs.
published by Trio Publications, 1995


Opus 43Moods (1990)
for childrens orchestra with flexible orchestration
Four easy pieces for amateur or school orchestra describing the following moods: 'Escatic', 'Sad', 'Angry' and 'Happy'. Features simple and strong rhythms.
Available from the composer


Opus 33Music for Tristan (1988)
for piano
This piece describes feelings of being a first-time parent, and has a variety of contrasting ideas. There are tender, lyrical moments mixed with very active and lively passages, requiring a high standard of playing.
Available from Bellbird Publications


Opus 21Night-piece (1986)
for piano
This continous piano work is dream-like and colourful in atmosphere, and combines styles and textures in an eclectic manner. Suitable for a professional pianist.
Available from the composer


Opus 139Nocturne and Sunrise (2008)
for flute, viola and guitar
A colourful work in three sections and describes the progression from night through to early morning.
Available from the composer


Opus 74bObsessions(1995)
electronic recording, featuring keyboard, guitar, bass guitar, drums, voice
Dance music for Sue Cheeseman.


Opus 129Octopus (2007)
for octet
An octet using the same combination as the Schubert Octet and in one continuous movement. Evocative sound colours within the ensemble depict the life cycle of the octopus.
Available from the composer


Opus 30Olveston Suite (1988)
for piano
These short pieces were composed for a concert in Olveston House, Dunedin, and describe different rooms in the historic home. They are evocative and designed for about grade 8 level.
Available from Bellbird Publications


Opus 116Oppositions (2005)
for piano quartet
Angular, exciting piece in one movement. Musical themes jostle for supremacy.
Available from the composer


Opus 125Organ Overture (2006)
for organ and orchestra
A stormy and vibrant piece with a challenging organ part.
Available from the composer


Opus 74cOut into the Blue (1996)
for piano
Evocative piano music to accompany a dance choreographed by Shona Dunlop, and included in a TV documentary on her life.
Available from the composer


Opus 13Paatere(1983)
for piano


Opus 51a Pas de Deux (1992)
for two guitars
This is a substantial work in five sections which explores the many different textures and colours available from the combination of two guitars.
Available from the composer


Opus 137cPause (2008)
for high voice and piano
A setting of a poem by Ursula Bethell celebrating gardening and delving into life's mysteries.
Available from the composer


Opus 126Peninsula Suite (2006)
for solo piano
Six pieces for young performers on the theme of local wildlife, aimed at grades 4-5
Available from Bellbird Publications


Opus 9Piano Concerto (1982)
for piano and orchestra
Virtuosic writing for the soloist along with a colourful orchestral part. In four movements, it explores a wide range of moods and styles.
Available from the composer


Opus 136Piano Concerto No. 3 (2008)
for piano and orchestra
A sunny and life affirming work with an emphasis on expression and colour rather than virtuosity.
Available from the composer


Opus 29Piano Sonata 1988 (1988)
for piano
This is a substantial sonata, written for the professional pianist. It is rhythmically challenging, lively, and also contains a haunting slow movement.
Available from the composer


Opus 100Piano Trio (2001)
for violin, cello and piano
This work was a finalist in the SOUNZ Contemporary Award for 2001, and signals a new direction in the composer's style, using 12-tone rows for the first time since student works.The Piano Trio is in three movements.
Available from the composer


Opus 92Pink and White (1999)
for organ
This colourful piece is programmatic, describing the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886 and the destruction of the famous Pink and White Terraces. A challenging piece, composed for NZ organist Martin Setchell who performed it during his 1999 world tour.
Available from the composer


Opus 6Poems of Spring (1981)
for piano
Range in mood from energetic and escatic, to melencholic, and display influences of Bartok and Prokofiev.
published by Promethean Editions


Opus 141Portrait of FH (2009)
for orchestra
Symphonic work inspired by the media used by Frances Hodgkins - water-colours, oils and gouaches.
Available from the composer


Opus 131 Procession (2007)
for orchestra
A short lively piece for amateur orchestra. Buoyant in tone and inspired by street processions.
Available from the composer


Opus 35Psalm 147 (1988)
for SAB choir and organ
This is an easy and accessible song for choir, with a colourful organ part that is not too demanding to play.
published by Nota Bene


Opus 108Quartet (2003)
for SSTB and string quartet
Quartet is a chamber opera for 4 singers with string quartet, performing on-stage. It can work with or without a conductor.
Available from the composer


Opus 12Quartet for Two Flutes and Two Clarinets(1983)
for flute and clarinet


Opus 134aRain (2008)
for baritone and piano
A lyrical and peaceful setting of the iconic poem by Hone Tuwhare.
Available from the composer


Opus 134bRain (2008)
for baritone and orchestra
A lyrical and peaceful setting of the iconic poem by Hone Tuwhare.
Available from the composer


Opus 61Remember Parihaka (1994)
for orchestra
A short and evocative piece that commemorates the shameful events at Parihaka in 1881, where government troops forcibly took over a Maori Pa and sent many of its inhabitants to prison. Used as a high school resource, this piece is approachable and not difficult to perform.
Available from the composer


Opus 82Revelations (1998)
for orchestra
Inspired by a near-death experience, this tone-poem is full of colourful musical images and sharp contrasts of mood. It is sharp-edged in tone and challenging in performance.
Available from the composer


Opus 83Rhapsody (1998)
for violin and piano
This vivid and exciting piece is based around a 'khosid dance' from Transylvannia. Both violin and piano parts are demanding.
published by Promethean Editions


Opus 32Rhapsody for Guitar (1988)
for guitar
The two movements in this work have a folky character while being essentially abstract. The first is called 'Slow Bulgarian Dance' and explores irregular metres, while the second is called 'Skittish Dance'.
published by Wai-te-ata Press, 1991


Opus 121Rites of Passage (2005)
for bassoon and string quartet
A lively and challenging piece for an unusual combination, well received on its inaugural tour for Chamber Music NZ
Available from the composer


Opus 46bSchool Blues(1992)
for piano and voices
A school show.


Opus 56bSecond movement from Flute Concerto (1998)
for solo flute and piano
The second movement from the Flute Concerto has been re-arranged for concert performance, for flute and piano, and published in the volume 'Little Soundings:A selection of Flute Music by NZ Composers'
published by Centre for NZ Music


Opus 24She is Singing for Peace (1987)
for SSAATTBB a cappella
A flowing and lyrical work that builds an impassioned plea for peace. Demanding in performance.
Available from the composer


Opus 19Shintaro San (1986)
for brass band
Combines exciting, Bartokian textures with a more lyrical, Eastern-sounding middle section which uses a Japanese folksong. Suitable for A or B grade bands.
Available from the composer


Opus 80Shoal Dance (1997)
for 2 violins
A richly varied collection of pieces for solo violin, and also violin duos, composed for choregrapher Dan Belton.
Available from the composer


Opus 55Sinfonietta (1992-3)
for amateur orchestra
There is plenty of variety in the four movements of this work, from the mysterious quality in the first movement, to the energetic humour of the last. Easy to perform.
Available from the composer


Opus 2Sonata for a Friend(1978)
for piano


Opus 1Sonata for solo violin
for solo violin
Youthful and ambitious work shows influences of Bartok and Shostakovich, and includes a finale based on a 12-note row.
Available from the composer


Opus 54a'Song' (1992)
for male voices and organ
A simple and moving setting of Baxter's religious poem, dividing into two parts in the second half.
Available from the composer


Opus 54c'Song' (1992)
for mezzo-soprano and piano
A simple and moving setting of Baxter's religious poem, arranged for mezzo soprano and piano.
published by Bellbird Publications


Opus 54g'Song' (1992)
for bass and piano
A simple and moving setting of Baxter's religious poem, arranged for bass and piano.
Available from the composer


Opus 120Song for Minstrel (2005)
for violin and piano
Wistful and lyrical piece for violin and piano
Available from the composer


Opus 103Song of Hope (2002)
choir S.A.T.B.
This is a short but quite challenging choral work, recalling the sinking of the Cooks Strait ferryWahine, in 1968. It was first performed by The Southern Consort of Voices in 2003.
Available from the composer


Opus 54e'Song to the Lord Jesus'
for male voices and organ or piano
A simple and peaceful setting of the religious poem by James K. Baxter, composed for an ordination of priests at Dunedin's Holy Cross Chapel. Also available in arrangement for female voices.
Available from the composer


Opus 54f'Song to the Lord Jesus'
for mezzo soprano and piano
A simple and peaceful setting of the religious poem by James K. Baxter, composed for an ordination of priests at Dunedin's Holy Cross Chapel.
Available from the composer


Opus 97Southern Journeys (2000)
for orchestra and film
The four movements of this 'visual symphony' describe landscapes and wildlife in the deep south of NZ. The evocative music compliments the stunning film by Natural History NZ, but can also stand by itself as a concert piece.
Available from the composer


Opus 68Star Fire (1995)
for Soprano,Contralto,Tenor,Baritone,Bass and piano
The characters in 'Star Fire' are based on those in the TV series 'Star Trek', and have proved popular with school audiences. The music requires a professional level of performance, and includes several ensemble sections as well as solo passages.
Libretto by Stuart Hoar.
Available from the composer


Opus 98eStomping in the Park (1999)
for amateur orchestra
An easy piece for school orchestra, with a catchy tune and colourful orchestration.
Available from the composer


Opus 14String Quartet (1983-4)
for string quartet
Avant garde in style, it explores relationships among people in music, and is technically demanding.
Available from the composer


Opus 105String Quartet No 2 (2003)
for string quartet
This work is in four movements and is designed for professional players.
Available from the composer


Opus 65cSwinging Ducks and Yellow Trucks (1997)
A collection of 19 songs for pre-school and junior school ages by Anthony Ritchie and Dunedin composer Graeme Perkins, with attractive and imaginative accompaniments produced by Paul Wheeler and Graeme Perkins on cassette tape. The song book includes the words only. Lively and colourful songs about many aspects of NZ life, including the popular 'Duck Shake'
published by Trio Publications, 1997


Opus 59Symphony No. 1 "Boum" (1993)
for orchestra
This symphony in four movements encompasses a world of feelings and images, without being too demanding technically.
Available from the composer


Opus 95Symphony No.2 "The Widening Gyre" in three movements (1999)
for orchestra
This symphony explores the millenium theme from an historic and poetic angle. The 3 movements are energetic and demanding for the orchestra.
Available from the composer


Opus 73bTangi (1996)
for baritone and piano
A simple and lyrical setting of Hone Tuwhare's moving poem. Originally part of the opera 'The Trapeze Artists', this song successfully stands alone in this version for baritone and piano.
Available from the composer


Opus 37Te Hau-a-Kaiaua (1989)
for orchestra:
A short tone poem, describing a Maori myth in music. It is colourful in its orchestration, and contains elements of Maori music mixed with minimalist elements.
published by Wai-te-ata Press


Opus 90The Blue Sonata (1998-9)
for cello and piano
A substantial work for cello and piano, which explores a range of emotions and moods. For professional players.
Available from the composer


Opus 99The Bomb is Made (2000)
for large choir, strings, organ and timpani
A reflective setting of the final verse of Keith Sinclair's moving poem on the theme of nuclear destruction. Written as a concert opener, but could fit within a programme as well. It is not technically demanding.
Available from the composer


Opus 63The Charge of Parihaka (1994)
for vocal sextet SSATBB
A setting of a powerful satirical poem by Jessie MacKay, describing events in Parihaka, 1881, when government troops forcibly took over a Maori Pa and sent many of its inhabitants to prison. A direct and strong setting, performable by soloists or by choir.
Available from the composer


Opus 77The Eagle has Landed (1996)
for 5 singers, string quartet and piano
A humorous and quirky mini opera in which Armstrong and Aldrin find they are not the first to step on the moon. Fast moving and thought-provoking, this opera is quite accessible for good performers. Libretto by Stuart Hoar.
Available from the composer


Opus 111The God Boy (2004)
for 8 soloists, children's chorus and chamber orchestra
An opera in two acts, with libretto by Jeremy Commons, based on the novel by Ian Cross. Designed for an intimate theatre, with the voices accompanied by a chamber orchestra.
Available from the composer


Opus 36The Hanging Bulb (1989)
for orchestra
In four connected sections, this work is intense in mood and strong in its rhythms and melodic cells. A personal work, beautiful and sensitive, expressing the images of sadness and despair.
published by Massey University Press, 1999


Opus 137dThe Organist and the Rhododendron (2008)
for any keyboard instrument
A reflective piece.
Available from the composer


Opus 58The Rose Family (1993)
for a cappella choir
These songs take many various views of the rose, resulting in an eclectic collection of music, challenging but not overly difficult for choir.
Available from the composer


Opus 73The Trapeze Artists (1996)
for 3 singers,piano, double bass, percussion
This mini-opera explores the stages of a relationship, and is richly varied in tone and mood.
Available from the composer


Opus 62The Tuatara Dances (1994)
for orchestra
The Tuatara shakes off his passive past and moves to some contemporary dance rhythms. A lively and amusing piece, it incorporates elements of jazz and ethnic music alternating with the Tuatara theme, building to an exciting climax.
Available from the composer


Opus 74aThe-Room-Two-Inches-Behind-the-Eyes (1994)
Electronic keyboard recording
Dance music for Footnote Dance Company and Shona Dunlop.
Available from the composer


Opus 69cTheatre music for Hippolytus by Euripides(1995)
for female voices with flute


Opus 69aTheatre music for Orphee by Cocteau, University of Otago(1991)
for piano


Opus 69bTheatre music for The Frogs by Aristophanes, University of Otago (1993)
for voices, guitar, percussion, flute
Easy singing parts with a basic accompaniment that evokes the ancient Greek style.
Available from the composer


Opus 69dTheatre music for The Revengers Tragedy by Tournier (1995)
for harpsichord, bass recorders, flute, viola, cello, percussion
Vivid and characterful music to acompany this Jacobian drama, and available on tape recording.
Available from the composer


Opus 85Theme and Variations: The Search (1998)
for orchestra
A dark and vivid work exploring the theme of searching. It provides plenty of instrumental solos but is never too demanding, technically.
Available from the composer


Opus 133bTheme and Variations for cellos (2007)
for orchestra
Scored for 6 to 8 cellos and makes a good companion piece for Bachianas Brasilieras No. 5 by Villa-Lobos
Available from the composer


Opus 75Then I Understood (1996)
for SATB choir and orchestra
Eight settings of poems by child poet Laura Ranger, capturing the clarity of a child's vision of the world. The music captures the essence of the poems through sound images, and tries to retain the youthful energy of Laura's words. Written for professional performers.
Available from the composer


Opus 78Three Chinese Love Songs (1996-7)
for soprano and piano
Expressive and reasonably taxing for the singer, these are settings of ancient Chinese love poems.
Available from the composer


Opus 22aThree Hungarian Folk Songs (1986-88)
for SATB a cappella
These songs are arrangements of Hungarian folksongs collected by Bartok, and require a medium degree of skill from the choir.
published by Nota Bene


Opus 117Three Images (2005)
for female voices, horn and piano
These three songs, written for school choir, reflect the strong and beautiful images created by the New Zealand poets Apirana Taylor and James K. Baxter.
Available from the composer


Opus 4Three Pieces for Strings (1980)
for string orchestra
Strongly astringent short pieces, featuring an expressive passacaglia based on a 12-note row.
Available from the composer


Opus 118Three Pieces for Viola and Guitar (2005)
for female voices, horn and piano
Three lyrical pieces with a relatively simple guitar part.
Available from the composer


Opus 18Three Songs for Tracy (1985)
for mezzo soprano and piano
These short settings of English poetry are lyrical while also demanding a reasonable sense of pitch from the singer. They are approachable songs.
Available from the composer


Opus 42To Face the Night Alone (1990)
for solo baritone, large SATB choir, and orchestra
This major work traces the stages of the grief process, mixing poems by James K. Baxter, Sam Hunt and Janet Frame with a evocative and powerful libretto by Pat White. It is direct in style, and well within the capabilities of most city choirs and orchestras.
Available from the composer


Opus 130Transylvanian Dances (2007)
for string quartet
Based on a transcription of two Hungarian Jewish folk tunes combined to make a lively short concert item.
Available from the composer


Opus 31Trio for Clarinet, Cello and Piano (1988)
for clarinet, cello and piano
An intense work, with a restless first movement, a brooding second movement, and a fleeting and mellow finale. It does not make excessive demands on the players.
Available from the composer


Opus 45aTuatara (1990)
for violin and piano
For professional players to perform to children.
Available from the composer


Opus 109Tui (2004)
for solo flute
A short, evocative piece based on Tui calls, composed for Bridget Douglas.
Available from the composer


Opus 28cTutira Mai (1988)
for SSA, flute, cello, piano
Arrangement of a traditional Maori song designed for high school performance. It has been widely performed.
Available from Bellbird Publications


Opus 107Timeless Land (2003)
for orchestra
Timeless Land can be perforned as an orchestral piece alone, or in conjunction with a film by Natural History NZ and readings of texts by Brian Turner and Owen Marshall (If the latter is used, the duration of the work is approximtely 60 minutes).
Available from the composer


Opus 39bTwo further songs for Columba College (1991)
for SSA, cello, flute and piano
The languid and lyrical 'Kowhai Tree' and the quirky and funny 'First day at School'.
Available from the composer


Opus 28aTwo Maori Songs (1988)
for SSA, flute, cello, piano
Arrangements of traditional Maori songs designed for high school performance. Tutira Mai in particular has been widely performed.
Available from the composer


Opus 115Two Pantoums for Soprano and Piano (2005)
for soprano and piano
Two reflective songs using recently written poems by Cilla McQueen
Available from the composer


Opus 123Two Pieces for Flute and Bass Clarinet (2006)
for flute and bass clarinet
Two contrasting pieces, one melancholy the other energetic and dynamic.
Available from the composer


Opus 39aTwo Songs for Columba College (1989)
for SSA, cello, flute and piano
These approachable songs were composed for high school groups, and include the amusing and lively 'The Owl and the Astronaut'.
Available from the composer


Opus 11Two Songs for Contralto and Piano(1982)
for contralto and piano


Opus 28bTwo Songs of the City (1988)
for SSA, flute, cello, piano
These approachable songs were composed for high school groups, and have proved popular among choirs. Recently they were published in America.
published by Treble Clef Music


Opus 57Underwater Music (1993)
for orchestra
A colourful descriptive piece, imaginatively portraying seahorses, stingrays and dolphins.
Available from the composer


Opus 23Variations for Orchestra (1987)
for amateur orchestra
A lively and colourful piece for youth orchestra, based on a quasi-Hungarian folk tune.
Available from the composer


Opus 64Viola Concerto (1994-5)
for viola and orchestra
A personal work in 4 movements covering a range of moods. Lightly scored to let the viola speak.
Available from the composer


Opus 64bViola Concerto (1994-5)
for viola and piano
Piano reduction of orchestral score. A personal and substantial work in 4 movements covering a range of moods.
published by Bellbird Publications


Opus 64cViola Sonata (1994-5)
for viola and piano
Piano reduction of orchestral score. A personal and substantial work in 4 movements covering a range of moods.
published by Bellbird Publications


Opus 20Violin Sonata (1986)
for violin and piano
In three movements, this sonata is expansive and quite demanding for both instruments. It is full of driving rhythms and rich textures.
Available from the composer


Opus 98dVisions of Education (2000)
for flute, violin, cello, piano, mixed choir and solo voices
Visions of Education is a theatrical piece, involving a mix of music, drama, singing and narration of texts. It was written for the 125th anniversary celebrations of the Dunedin College of Education.
Available from the composer


Opus 88Welcome! (1998)
for SSAATTBB choir unaccompanied
A strong and punchy song for mixed choir, built on old New Zealand texts. This would make a good opener to a concert.
Available from the composer


Opus 71Whakatipua (1995-6)
for string quartet
An approachable and evocative work, based on the landscape around Queenstown in NZ. This piece was written for a birthday celebration.
Available from the composer


Opus 128Whalesong (2006)
for double bass and orchestra
A ten minute mini-concerto based on the song of the humpback whale.
Available from the composer


Opus 110Widow's Songs (2004)
for SSAATTBB a cappella
A series of three connected songs which set poems by Cilla McQueen.
Available from the composer


Opus 10With Years to Go (1982)
for SATB a cappella
Short part-songs, relatively easy to perform while maintaining a modern style. The texts are both by children.
published by Nota Bene


Opus 140Words are my Notes (2008)
for mezzo soprano, viola and piano
This cycle is a setting of four poems by Christopher Marshall which explore the nature of words and their use in human relationships.
Available from the composer


Opus 48Yet Another Poem of Spring (1991)
for orchestra
A short orchestral fanfare, lively and colourful, designed to open a concert.
Available from the composer