City's opera school one of a kind

Wanganui's New Zealand Opera School is unique worldwide, according to a visiting classical voice expert, and may yet go international, organisers have revealed.

Acclaimed classical voice teacher Professor Paul Farrington from London has taught and held special master classes at the school over the past seven years. He said although there were other specialist opera courses throughout the world, the Wanganui school stood on its own.

"This is a remarkable school, because it teaches all the elements of opera."

He said that was unlike other opera schools, which only specialise in teaching different facets of opera.

The annual opera school, in 2012 now in its 18th year, is an intensive 12 days of classes and coaching for young singers at Wanganui Collegiate School.

New Zealand might be at the bottom of the world, but it is far from the bottom of the pile when it comes to its young classical singers, Professor Farrington said.

"There is superb talent here. I look forward to coming here every year and hope I continue to be invited."

Even though the school was solely for young New Zealanders, international students could be considered within a few years.

Director Donald Trott said there would eventually be discussions about opening the school to international students.

At this year's school for the first time, an international vocal student is coming as an observer next week, Mr Trott said.

"We don't have observers every year. Observers come to the school for various reasons, mostly because they are too young to be accepted. Students must be 21 when they audition."

One of the big highlights from last year's school was the Flash Opera - an impromptu outdoor performance at the River Traders Market of the Brindisi, the drinking song from La Traviata by Guiseppe Verdi.

It was the first time a flash opera, hugely popular overseas, had been performed in New Zealand.

This year it was to feature the famous Habanera from Carmen by Georges Bizet, Mr Trott said.

"Unfortunately, our sound man who donated his equipment and time last year, couldn't be here and we didn't have it in our budget to go ahead and hire someone."

The live performance would have involved a five minute-long CD, one lapel microphone and speakers, he said.

"Yes, it's disappointing, but rest assured the Flash Opera will go ahead next year."

It was also hoped Dame Kiri Te Kanawa would attend the final concert, Great Opera Moments, at the Royal Wanganui Opera House, on Friday January 13, which is sponsored by her foundation. But a hectic schedule has meant Dame Kiri will be performing at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, Mr Trott said.