The choral community is mourning the death of New Zealand Choral Federation CE Grant Hutchinson.
NZ Choral Federation CE Grant Hutchinson Photo: Facebook - New Zealand Choral Federation
He died early this morning surrounded by family. He was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in July.
Hutchinson was appointed CE of the Choral Federation in 2008, holding the position for a decade. He retired from this role in September.
At the finale of the 2018 Big Sing in September he was made a life member for his contribution to choral music.
In a statement on the Federation’s Facebook page, it says “Grant’s contribution to NZCF has been immense. As leader of the organisation for the past decade, he has dedicated himself tirelessly to choral music in Aotearoa”.
Grant Hutchinson speaks at The Big Sing Gala by video Photo: NZCF supplied
Originally from South Africa, he settled in Waikato briefly, before moving to Christchurch and became the music director of Jubilate Singers.
During his time with NZCF he helped to reinstate funding for the organisation, revive the Association of Choral Directors, instigate the NZCF Rugby World Cup 2011 Anthems Project and establish an Asia-Pacific Council to promote choral music.
“As a friend and colleague, he will be deeply missed,” the Choral Federation’s statement says.
Grant Hutchinson was known for his infectious enthusiasm, humility, hard-working attitude and his honesty. NZCF says on its website that he was “a true colleague and a genuinely nice man”.
