Story: Composers

Aria: a dawn song by Christopher Blake

Composer Christopher Blake has had a varied career, qualifying as a civil engineer before resuming an early interest in music and studying composition in New Zealand and England. He has held executive positions in arts administration and the public service. He was foundation chief executive for the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and wrote Aria: a dawn song for the opening of its new premises in 1991.

Using this item

Private collection

by Christopher Blake

Performed by Bridget Douglas, principal flute New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

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How to cite this page

William Dart, Composers – Consolidation, 1980s onwards, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/music/44648/aria-a-dawn-song-by-christopher-blake (accessed 24 June 2026).

Story by William Dart, published 20 March 2014.

Comments

Heather Turnbull
23 October 2014

Chris has given us a 'real' New Zealand aria and Bridget has interpreted it with avian precision. It is delightful !