Singing school starts on high note

Megan Riegal (left), Auckland and Christina Watson, Hamilton, taking part in an Opera Massed Chorus, one of the first classes at the New Zealand Singing School. PHOTO / DUNCAN BROWN

Singing filled classrooms, halls and lecture theatres as the prestigious IFAC Handa New Zealand Singing School got off to a soaring start at EIT in Taradale, yesterday.

Patron and actor George Henare flew down to open the school last night and ended up stepping in to help with classes.

"It was great to see he got involved, that wasn't planned at all ... it's great everyone is so excited to be here and the faculty all love coming back," New Zealand Singing School chairwoman Jill Tobin said.

The 11-day biennial event is one of a kind in Australasia and has attracted 72 students from throughout the country.

Now in its 28th year, the school sought singers with recognisable talent from here and across the ditch.

A 35-strong faculty from New Zealand, Australia, England, the United States and the Netherlands was handpicked to suit this year's focus on Inhabiting the Text.

It was a theme that flowed through the curriculum, there would also be a strong emphasis on English diction and Italian language.

"We are striving to give students insight on how to bring a piece of music alive," Ms Tobin said.

"This takes an understanding of the composer, the lyrics, and the significance of the piece within the opera or musical. Researching and reflecting on all these elements, gives a richer performance."

The school was unique in that it covered both music theatre and classical musical genres, seen as being very important for a productive career.

New Zealand baritone, Robert Tucker returned to the school as Artist in Residence, providing a useful insight for students.

He followed the footsteps of broadway music theatre star Liz Callaway and Napier-born lyric soprano Anna Leese.

"We are excited to have Robert with us, [he] has settled back in New Zealand, although he continues to perform internationally.

"Very importantly, he is an alumni of the school and will relate well to the students."