Famous Irish Tenor Anthony Kearns Sang for Patriotic Charities at the New Zealand Embassy in Washington
By Connie Lawn
December 5, 2010
In the midst of one of the most tragic years New Zealand has had for a long time, New Zealanders found the heart and the
time to hold a charity event for the families of Service Members. Ambassador Mike Moore told us, "it was the right thing
to do." A stirring concert was performed by famous Irish tenor Anthony Kearns, and superb pianist Dr. Linda Apple
Monson. Anthony Kearns is one of the famous Three Irish Tenors. The Concert was sponsored by the NZ Embassy in
Washington, along with the United Service Organizations (USO) and Thanks USA. They provide scholarships for children and
spouses of wounded warriors and others who serve; especially those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In the photo: Ambassador Mike Moore and Anthony Kearns at the Concert
The invited guests at the NZ Embassy were largely American, along with some members of the NZ Defence Force. Some of the
American servicemen told me they could sense a stronger relationship between the countries. The US Government was
represented by the Secretary of Transportation, Ray La Hood The guests enjoyed delicious NZ food and drinks, along with
the entertainment.
Anthony Kearns performed songs in several languages. The crowd was especially moved when he sang "Ava Maria" in honor of
the 29 coal miners. He also sang "The Lord's Prayer," "Danny Boy," "America the Beautiful" and other songs in several
languages. The crowd did not want to let him go, and we did manage to get one more ovation from him.
Embassies often hold charity or social events - especially at this time of the year. Ambassador and Mrs. Mike Moore made
a superb choice in holding this event, for the soldiers and their families. It was an event which helped to uplift the
spirit, especially in these painful times.
ENDS