Conductor Nicholas Forbes takes baton at NZ Opera School in Whanganui

By Lin Ferguson, 10th January 2025

Conductor, organist and singer Nicholas Forbes oozes his love for music that he says has ruled his life completely since he was a boy.

Forbes is conductor at the New Zealand Opera School in Whanganui where he is taking the place of renowned Michael Vinten, the school’s choir conductor, this year.

Meeting Forbes is like meeting an old friend. His enthusiastic, warm personality is instantly engaging.

He remembers when he was 10 being told by a teacher that he had a good singing voice and should join a choir.

“My life changed. I joined the Christchurch Cathedral Choir with all these boys, no girls in those days. It was amazing – this huge group of new friends I loved it instantly.”

He was especially fascinated by the enormous old organ and would watch the organist intently until one day he invited Forbes to “come on over”.

“I loved it. It was so loud. I was bitten by the sound of the organ and badly wanted to play it.”

Even though his life was filled with music, he thought he should probably be sensible and do a law degree.

“But Bach won. Music was my passion, so I left Christchurch for Auckland and, hopefully, a career in music.”

With his talent for singing, conducting and playing the organ, he was quite hopeful.

“A career in music really tests your mettle,” he said.

“But it is always joyous and nourishing.”

Being musical director at the opera school this year was a joy, he said.

“I had heard about Whanganui Collegiate School, but being here is quite wonderful. What a beautiful place. And the students are great – all so keen to work and learn.”

He said being conductor on Sunday at the school chapel, leading the always-glorious In Praise of Music service, was absolutely fantastic.

“What a beautiful platform. All platforms are quite wonderful, but this one is very special and I’m so happy to be here.”

Photo / Brad Fisher