Extract from an interview with Mario Verster the conductor of the concert for Pentecost 2010.

Q: When a programme for a concert of such importance is compiled surely much thought must be given to its content. What were some of the considerations?
Taking into consideration that we will perform to an international audience the aim was to have a programme which offers variety and entertainment. The concert will feature soloists, choir, orchestra as well as the children’s choir who will be presenting two pieces: The first is called A World of difference, which highlights the diversity we represent and how we all can make a difference. I find it very appropriate for this event.
The second piece is the Swahili song O Sifuni Mungu with drums in accompaniment to capture the African flavour. This portrays the true essence of Africa. 
The concert forms part of the Pentecost celebration, therefore there are items that directly relates to this.  The Comforter has come, for example, reflects the theme of Pentecost. Overall I feel it is a very well balanced programme that takes one through emotions of rejoicing, reverence and reflection.

Q: I was going to ask you whether there was an overall tone to the programme in the sense of it being joyful or solemn, but it seems as if the items chosen run through the full spectrum of emotions. Is this so?
 Yes, I think that is fairly accurate. The programme starts off with a bang, depicting the glory of God with the piece And then shall your light (Elijah). Rutter’s Look at the world conveys a feeling of happiness while Thou gracious God, whose mercy lends creates a calm, tranquil feeling at first which develops to a bold, rousing ending. There are quite a few pieces that bring about emotions of jubilation and excitement.  Then there is I have a home beyond the river which makes one reflect into one’s soul and creates a feeling of longing for that special place prepared by God, our Father. The last piece Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, concludes the programme and this certainly will take everyone to a high point and filled with joy.

Q: Are there any items that are newly arranged or newly composed?
There are two pieces that are new. But both of them were not composed specifically for this concert. They were newly composed for inclusion in the new English hymnal.
 The one is The Comforter will come by Peter Lambert and the other I have a home beyond the river by Clyde Davids. Of course these hymns were originally for the congregation with organ accompaniment. Now it has been re-arranged for the concert with soloists, choir and orchestra in the case of the first piece and with boy soprano, orchestra and choir in case of the second. Both these pieces are beautifully arranged and greatly enhance what is already in the hymnal.
Then there is the item Joyful, joyful we adore Thee based on the music of the last movement of Beethoven’s 9th symphony which incorporates the choir. The original version of this movement is approximately 23 minutes long so it had to be adapted to reflect the essence of the piece in a shortened version.
 
Q: Is there any piece in the programme that is your favourite, that you particularly enjoy conducting?
This is rather a difficult question because I have a few favourites in the programme. The hymn: I have a home beyond the river is very dear to my heart because I absolutely feel the peace in the rendition and it stirs up special emotions within me.
And then shall your light is part of Mendelssohn’s Elijah and I enjoy this piece because it is very dramatic and you can almost experience God’s power and might through the music. 
Sing unto God is also one of my favourites, but then there are quite a few more.
Obviously the programme was not compiled of my favourites, but it just so happens that there are a number of pieces I enjoy.