Manase Latu.
The Lexus Song Quest has a special place in our musical calendar and ongoing cultural history. The slogan of its generous sponsor invites us to experience amazing classical singing and one is indeed astonished at the wealth of singing talent that New Zealand produces and fosters.
The five singers chosen
by judge Lisa Gasteen for the weekend's Grand Final Gala would be assessed on more than just their few minutes on the Town Hall stage, wittily introduced by MC Clarissa Dunn.
The opening round of songs, with that doyen of pianists, Terence Dennis, was rather on the light side, from Eliza Boom's nostalgic Eric Coates drawing-room ballad to Joel Amosa's high-powered spiritual, admittedly with Aaron Copland dressing.
Two turns with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra under Stephen Mould offered the opportunity to diversify.
Boom, later named runner-up, impressed with dramatic Gounod and Mozart arias, and some deliciously pointed recitative.
