Soprano Going Forward and Giving Back

My dream is to represent Kiwis on the world stage of Opera. In September 2018, I will be embarking on a journey abroad to make this dream a reality. After auditioning in the United Kingdom for music conservatoires that will elevate me to an international calibre of performer, I was offered scholarships and places in various programmes. I chose to accept a merit-based scholarship to study an artist masters at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Working hard to raise the funds, I am presently holding down a full-time job, organising benefit concerts, competing in singing competitions, and applying for all the scholarships and grants available to me in order to raise the shortfall of tuition and living costs. Despite facing my own hurdle to get myself to London, I am committed to pathing the way for the next generation of talented New Zealanders, so I have committed to giving a percentage of whatever I raise to the very honourable Central Auckland Music Academy. Operating out of a warehouse in South Auckland, the Academy provides music tuition to talented children; those who otherwise could not afford to learn music.

STUDIES

The Guildhall Artist Masters Programme is an exclusive two-year programme focused on providing the practical experience necessary to produce professional, yet unique, artists. Comprised of one-to-one lessons, specialist coaching, and performance projects, the intensive course is focused on refining vocal technique whilst honing performance skills and trade-mark quality. Of the scholarships I was offered, I chose the Guildhall due to its emphasis on creating artists, and not merely technicians. As a performer and musician, I consider this to be the quality that leads to a career on stages across the world.

Guildhall's vocal faculty are internationally acclaimed. Under their supervision, studying in the Artist Masters Programme will provide me with the training necessary to succeed in the real world of performing. In addition to practical training of the craft, the Schools emphasis on the business and professionalism that is required of 21st Century opera singers is essential.

In the heart of London and neighbouring the Barbican Centre, the Guildhall is strategically exposed to the bustle of international performing arts. This is highly conducive to my development, providing opportunities to observe the best in the industry, exposure to potential agents, and also professional performance opportunities.

LONG-TERM IMPACT

When I volunteered for the Central Auckland Music Academy, I was overwhelmed by the incredible raw talent of so many children from underprivileged backgrounds. It has been a dream of mine ever since to ensure music is an option.