Dr Rachael Griffiths-Hughes

Lecturer

Early music specialist Rachael Griffiths-Hughes combines her teaching work at the Conservatorium of Music with a busy schedule of performing and choral conducting.

After completing a Master of Music degree in harpsichord and organ performance with the late Anthony Jennings, Rachael won a scholarship to study in America, where she completed the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the State University of New York.

Rachael is a member of two ensembles, Waikato Baroque and Kowhai Baroque, which perform regular concerts on period instruments (baroque flute, recorders, baroque cello and harpsichord) throughout the North Island. Recent festival appearances have included the Taupo Summer Festival, the Wellington International Fringe Festival, and the Rotorua Chamber Music Festival.

As well as passion for baroque music, Rachael has research interests in Choral Music, and is the Conductor of the Hamilton Civic Choir. Recent works performed with this group include: Bach's b minor Mass; Benjamin Britten's cantata St. Nicolas; Missa Criolla by Ramirez; Tempus et Moutere by Michael Williams; Beethoven's 9th Symphony with the Auckland Philharmonia, and a gala performance of Handel's Messiah, performed on period instruments.

Rachael can also be heard every weekend at St. Peter's Cathedral, Hamilton, where she is Organist and Director of Music.

rgh@waikato.ac.nz