Letters From Paul: A Cantata by Sharny Russell

Name: Letters From Paul: A Cantata by Sharny Russell
Start: 2026-08-16T15:00:00+10:00
End: 2026-08-16T15:00:00+10:00
Location: Armidale Uniting Church

About

Sharny Russell has written contemporary music for churches and children throughout her life. Letters From Paul is adapted from one of four commissioned school musicals written more than 30 years ago. Known for combining music for young performers with a contemporary, sophisticated style, Sharny’s works were performed widely in schools and churches across Australia.

For many years, she dreamed of reimagining these musicals as choir cantatas — and now that dream has come to life in Armidale, New South Wales.

Sharny is currently on staff at the New England Conservatorium and previously taught for many years at Queensland Conservatorium, the Jazz Music Institute, and guest lectured at other universities in Australia.

Two young singers who were involved in the premiere production of "letters From Paul, later became two of the well known Ten Tenors. Reflecting recently on rediscovering old recordings of Letters From Paul, one described the music as “songs that have stayed with me through all my years of singing” and called their return “long overdue”.

This performance brings together full choir, children’s chorus, soloists and combined band/orchestra in a vibrant and moving presentation.

Nearly 2000 years ago, the apostle Paul wrote letters to encourage and strengthen the early church — words that continue to inspire people around the world today. Interwoven with narration that offers insight into Paul’s heart and passion, Letters From Paul combines joyful, grooving and at times epic music in a memorable musical experience.