Trinidad & Tobago’s beloved Marionettes Chorale proudly welcomes Dr. Nathan Nagir as guest conductor for their upcoming July concert series, Rejoice II — a continuation of the ensemble’s celebration of music, resilience, and joyful expression.
A proud son of Trinidad & Tobago, Dr. Nagir currently serves on the faculty of the School of Music at Texas State University, where he teaches at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Returning home for this special collaboration, Dr. Nagir joins the Marionettes at the invitation of Artistic & Musical Director, Gretta Taylor.
“It’s an honour to be invited to conduct such a treasured institution,” said Dr. Nagir. “I’m deeply grateful to Maestra Taylor for the opportunity and for the space she continues to create for meaningful music-making.”
In keeping with the concert’s theme of Rejoice II, Dr. Nagir’s repertoire selection reflects a celebration of faith, perseverance, and collective joy. He opens with Gwyneth Walker’s “How Can I Keep From Singing”, a 19th-century Quaker hymn reimagined in vibrant choral textures.
“Despite its origins, the message of this piece transcends denomination and tradition — it is about singing in community, singing through hardship, and singing with hope,” he said.
Another cornerstone of the programme is Dan Forrest’s “O God Beyond All Praising”, set to the majestic “Thaxted” melody — the lyrical theme from “Jupiter”, a movement in Gustav Holst’s The Planets.
“It captures the grandeur of worship and the awe we experience in beauty,” noted Dr. Nagir. “It’s a powerful expression of praise that aligns beautifully with the concert’s title.”
His set also includes Stephen Paulus’ poignant “The Road Home”, Nathan Hofheins’ stirring “How Great Thou Art”, and the beloved gospel anthem “Total Praise” by Richard Smallwood, arranged by Barrett & Rao — each selected to embody the spirit of rejoicing through different musical idioms.
“These pieces are invitations — to reflect, to praise, to rejoice,” Dr. Nagir said. “I hope that audiences will leave feeling uplifted, reminded of the strength and unity that music can inspire.”
With his return to Trinidad for this meaningful collaboration, Dr. Nagir brings international experience and heartfelt passion to a programme that celebrates the rich legacy and enduring vibrancy of the internationally acclaimed Marionettes Chorale.
Tickets & showtimes
Proudly supported by Flow (Columbus Communications), One Caribbean Media Ltd. (OCM) and Music Radio 97.1FM, Rejoice II features some of the Chorale’s best-loved soloists, the Marionettes Youth Chorale, and emerging talent — all under the batons of conductors Gretta Taylor, Caryll Warner, Joshua Joseph, and Dr. Nagir. Part proceeds from the Arouca and Malabar concerts will benefit the respective churches.
- Friday 4th July, 7:00pm Church of the Assumption, Maraval
- Saturday 5th July, 7:00pm — Arouca Revival Tabernacle
- Sunday 6th July, 5:00pm — Church of the Holy Spirit, Malabar
All tickets are $200. For tickets, patrons may use the online ticket booking form, contact 790-1751, email orders@marionetteschorale.com, or reach out to the venues or any choir member. Tickets for Arouca are also available from ART (270-6973) and David (785-1121). Tickets for Malabar are available from the Church of the Holy Spirit parish office at 241-2715 or 277-0734.
For press enquiries, interviews or additional details:
Rachael N. Collymore
PR, Marketing and IP Consultant
Power Media Hub
1 (868) 323-0416 | engage@powermediahub.com
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