Young singers meet opera sensations Sol3 Mio

Young would-be opera singers had a chance to meet with Sol3 Mio - three talented Samoan New Zealanders taking the world by storm.

Members of Project Prima Volta, a youth initiative run by private Hawke's Bay company Festival Opera, were able to sit in on a sound check before their concert at Black Barn on Saturday.

"Students listened to the trio harmonise, checking volume levels and instruments, and had the unique experience of a concert especially for them," Festival Opera creative director Anna Pierard said.

"Once finished, [they] jumped off stage and introduced themselves, embracing every student and making them feel welcome."

The opera stars answered questions about challenging stereotypes and reaching potential, saying their point of difference was "sincerity".

They also signed special Project Prima Volta T-shirts and instilled hope for the youngsters looking to a future in the industry.

Sol3 Mio comprises two tenor brothers, Pene and Amitai Pati, and their baritone cousin Moses Mackay, whose self-titled offering surpassed Lorde's album sales for 2013, to take the title of best selling CD of the year.

Festival Opera opens The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart at Napier Municipal Theatre tonight from 7pm as part of Art Deco Weekend celebrations.

It will feature an international cast, working alongside local talent to bring to life some of the best comic opera.

There will also be a Matinee 2pm on Thursday and a second evening show on Saturday.