Papanui Road is an arterial route in the city of Christchurch.
John Ritchie Photo: Supplied
Composer John Ritchie said, "Having lived near Papanui Road for most of my life; having cycled, driven and walked on it; having shopped, eaten and prayed in or on it, I feel at home there. As young people say, it has 'vibes' for me. It certainly has memories."
This unashamedly colloquial piece is colourfully scored with many associations that anybody who knows Christchurch will recognise. There's a large percussion section including tram bell and car horns. The overture hints at the bustle, vitality and peace of the area. It begins and ends with Shosty, the Ritchie family cat furtively examining the kitchen window of a nearby restaurant.
Recorded in Christchurch Town Hall on 24th March 2001 by RNZ Concert
