BRIGHT FUTURE: Christian Thurston is moving to New York at the end of August to begin a Masters at the Manhattan School of Music. PHOTO/FILE
BRIGHT FUTURE: Christian Thurston is moving to New York at the end of August to begin a Masters at the Manhattan School of Music. PHOTO/FILE
Baritone Christian Thurston is making the shift of a lifetime to pursue his dream.
The former John Paul College head boy and Dame Malvina Major Foundation emerging artist has beaten nearly 3000 applicants worldwide to be accepted into the Masters programme at the acclaimed Manhattan School of Music in NewYork City.
"It's pretty great news. I was overwhelmed," he said. "It will open some doors being in New York ... It is like the mecca of opera."
Thurston has already visited the campus, and will make the shift at the end of August.
"I am pretty excited. It's going to be a big move and a huge culture change. Every day I was there I enjoyed it more."
He will be training with the best in his profession, and will be under the tutelage of leading American bass-baritone James Morris.
"I will be studying with one of the greatest baritones alive, known for playing the best Wotan. He is a huge deal."
Thurston, who has a post-graduate diploma in classical performance, voice from the New Zealand School of Music at Victoria University, has a bit to do before he leaves.