If you are looking for a fabulous musical feast by two up-and-coming young artists of our region - you won't want to miss Anna Hawkins' EP Release Concert at Holy Trinity Church on Saturday, 21 April 2012, supported by upcoming tenor Chase Douglas.
Her album Credo features a fusion of classical, contemporary and Celtic songs. Music to inspire and nourish your soul.
Hawkins, pictured, is an exceptional young woman with an enchanting yet powerful voice and an alluring stage presence.
Her voice is a unique blend of both richness and purity with an emotive quality that stems from her ability to take her audience on a journey leaving them moved and wanting more.
There is no doubt that this dedicated 23-year-old has the passion and potential to fulfil her dreams and achieve international acclaim.
Anna has just finished her EP, working with Stephen Small at York St Studios in Auckland. Anna loved every moment of the experience, "I think I'm hooked! I could do that again and again - I love seeing it all come together and the process of creating!
"Having string players from the Auckland Philharmonic and Opus Orchestras in the studio made it extra special. Anna hopes to get tracks up on itunes as soon as possible for all those who are already asking how to they buy them.
At the tender age of seven she began singing at her local country and western club and within a very short time was winning contests, talent quests and being asked to perform all over the North Island.
Her musical journey had begun and from here she moved into a new challenge - classical singing lessons.
At just 12 years of age Anna's talent was recognised nationally when she won the Under 16 Rotorua Lockwood Aria Competition two years running.
Recording her own CD, Russian Lullaby two years later at 14.
Anna's voice further displayed her uniquely mature presence and captivating prowess.
Anna took to the stage in choirs, bands, musical productions and events in and out of school, gaining the lead roles - Fantine in Les Miserables, Florence in Chess and Lucy in Jekyll and Hyde.
Anna continued in a work ethic beyond her years dedicating herself to excellence in all she did.
She performed outside of school at various events and many opportunities were given her, highlights include performing with the Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra at Mystery Creek, solo at only 15 for Auckland's Coca Cola Christmas in the Park and organising her own concert Enchantment which sold out for two nights running at the Hamilton Gardens Festival.
In recent years Anna's versatility has seen her perform at various high profile events singing at concerts, festivals, fashion shows, corporate functions, to performing on television or leading an anthem at a rugby stadium full of people.
Loving the thrill of performing live with an orchestra, Anna has performed with the Opus Orchestra at Hamilton and Tauranga Festivals and on several occasions with the Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra.
Anna has wowed audiences with her portrayal of the lead role Kim in a local production of Miss Saigon; performing again at TV3's Coca Cola Christmas in the Park, the TSB Festival of Lights performing her own concert in New Plymouth's Bowl of Brooklyn; at Taupo's Flying Proms, Auckland Seafood Festival and Hamilton Gardens Sunset Symphony, as well as several corporate events including singing Pokarekare Ana at the Auckland Museum for the opening of the Chinese Airlines NZ service.
Anna also performed with international tenor Will Martin in A Touch of Class at Katikati's Twilight Concert Series in 2010 performing there again in her own concert later that year.
Looking forward Anna is extremely passionate about carving out an international career in the arts and is on her way to fulfilling her dreams.
Anna hopes to communicate love with her voice to as many people as she can, aiming to develop and perform her own material and to foster greater enjoyment of beautiful music.
Tickets available at Ticketek outlets - 0800Ticketek
Door sales - general admission $20