PROGRAMME NOTE

‘Little Tree’ is dedicated to our LGBTQ+ whānau, especially those who have been displaced by their communities, churches, and families. While for many, Christmas is a time of joy and connection, for some it is a reminder of the conditional nature of love from those closest to them. To live in constant rejection and ostracisation is a reality for far too many people. ‘Little Tree’ urges its listeners to recognise the power they hold to make their communities a more accepting and welcoming place for all. The piece combines contemporary and classical sounds and in the same notion asks the listener to acknowledge that tradition and acceptance can co-exist.