Louise Jessica Morgan: Words from Nora Lewis

"I didn’t really meet Louise properly till early 2020 when our rehearsals were hit by covid restrictions. Wednesday nights were in Christchurch Cathedral because it afforded the space needed to adhere to the separation rules in place.  As if it weren’t enough that we were sitting a metre apart, wearing masks, and finding it impossible to hear each other, the shy demeanour of the young lady in the back row also concealed what a lovely voice she had."

"Concerts I conducted that Louise performed in included From A Distance – outside in the CDU amphitheatre – and Earth Wind and Fire  in St. Mary’s Cathedral, but she also rehearsed Carmina Burana with the Chorale, and performed it with the DSO. I remember her joy at being part of these productions, her responsiveness to me as conductor, and her warm interaction with other singers during the rehearsal process."

"It wasn’t really till early last year that I realised the extent of Louise’s solo talent and witnessed her growing confidence as a performer. Accordingly, I asked her to sing at Carols by Candlelight last year, in which she was part of a close harmony trio singing Mele Kaliki maka. She looked just the part in Hawaiian dress and flowers in her hair."

"So it was no surprise to me when I learned of Louise’s interest in auditioning for the part of the Mistress in Evita. During rehearsals she was constantly exploring her capacity to portray the character she was playing, and her vocal range, in order to express the right emotions. She was so gratified when I told after one rehearsal how moved I was that night. How can I adequately express what an impressive impact she made in this role….?  In only one song, Louise totally captivated the audience with her enchanting voice so full of pathos, and her embodiment of the fragility yet fierce resilience of Eva’s mistress. We will never forget her powerful portrayal of this role."

"But Louise gave more than her voice to the Chorale. She gave her friendship, her radiant smile, her sense of humour, and her caring nature. Without being loud and assertive, she had clear strength of character, and a lovely ability to bring people together.  We all miss her terribly."

Nora Lewis AM