Julia Bullock is an American soprano who visited our shores for the first time during the 2026 Auckland Arts Festival. Teamed up with the Auckland Philharmonia and conducted by her husband Christian Reif, Bullock’s graceful charm, infectious smile and gorgeous voice created a scintillating and emotional evening.
She performed 10 songs including remarkable renditions of Gershwin’s Summertime and Somebody from Somewhere, as well as an interpretation of Bernstein’s Somewhere that was astonishing in its beauty and clarity.
But it was her delivery of a series of Negro Spiritual songs by Margaret Bonds which had the greatest impact including a dramatic version of Poème d’Automne. Though not in the playbill, Bullock delivered one final song replete with power and soul – I Wish I Knew How it would Feel to Be Free, a civil rights anthem still as relevant today as when it was first released.
The Auckland Philharmonia was in its usual fine form and also presented three music only pieces. The first being Korngold’s Theme and Variations. Later came a bewitching delivery of Bernstein’s overture from Candide, and the final piece, Weill’s Symphony No.2.
An integral part of any orchestral production is the conductor. Each has their own style and personality, and on this evening, Reif was enthralling to watch.
His fluid motions using both a baton and his left hand to give direction combined with his facial expressions perfectly matched the mood and intensity of each piece. Several times his left hand clenched in a pinch as though he was drawing the music towards himself – at other times his arms stretched wide and then suddenly pulled together then outwards as the sounds grew in intensity up to a final climax.
Under his baton, Bernstein’s Candide Overture frothed and bubbled with happiness and whimsy. Parts of Weill’s Symphony No.2 had darker overtones and Reif’s body language and face mirrored the music impeccably.He clearly loves music and his appreciation of it, as it seemed to almost move through him was often reflected on the faces of the orchestra.
This concert was truly something worth experiencing – an orchestra playing to perfection, a conductor at the top of his game and a singer with poise and a sumptuous voice ensured that this was an evening full of spirit and delight.