Project Prima Volta Junior: Hawke’s Bay children invited to audition for free singing programme

Young singers in Years 6 to 9 can audition for Project Prima Volta Junior on April 22. Photo / Project Prima Volta

Hawke’s Bay’s next generation of voices is warming up.

Young singers are being invited to audition for Project Prima Volta Junior, a free after-school programme aimed at helping students build confidence, skills and a love of music.

Auditions for the 2026 intake are on April 22 at St Paul’s Church in Napier, for Years 6 to 9 students.

Run by the Prima Volta Charitable Trust, the programme has supported young voices in Hawke’s Bay for more than a decade.

It offers weekly sessions focused on vocal technique, ensemble singing, musicianship and performance in a supportive group setting.

Founder Anna Pierard says the project gives children a chance to discover what their voice can do.

“It is about helping children grow in confidence, experience the joy of singing with others, and feel part of something bigger than themselves,” she said.

Pierard said no prior training is needed to audition.

Selection is based on curiosity and enthusiasm, rather than polished performances, with the programme designed to be accessible to any child who enjoys singing.

“We want young people to know that this is for them. You do not need to have had formal lessons or lots of experience. A shared love of singing is often where it all begins,” Pierard said.

The initiative has already helped launch international careers for Hawke’s Bay voices.

Former student Emmanuel Fonoti-Fuimaono, who grew up in Flaxmere, went on to join The Royal Opera’s prestigious Jette Parker Artists Programme in London after being selected from more than 600 applicants worldwide.

The programme is a two-year professional residency for exceptional young artists taking their first steps on the international stage.

Auditions for Project Prima Volta Junior will run from 4.30pm to 5.30pm on April 22.

The programme is free, and families can register their interest on the programme’s website.