Curtain rises for opera 'apprentices'

Performing at Heritage House in Wanganui yesterday were students of the NZ Opera School, from left, Edward Laurenson (tenor), David Kelly (pianist), Bianca Andrew (mezzo soprano) Oliver Sewell (tenor), Elizabeth Mandeno (soprano) and Cheuky Chan (pianist). Photo/Bevan Conley

More than 200 Wanganui music aficionados were at Heritage House in St Hill St yesterday for the Lunchtime Concert featuring the emerging artists of the New Zealand Opera Company, all students at the NZ Opera School at Wanganui Collegiate School.

School director Jonathan Alver said emerging artists were selected effectively as opera "apprentices".

"Once selected, they spend the next 12 months with the New Zealand Opera Company experiencing the rigours of opera production and performance."

The three emerging artists this year were pianist Cheuky Chan, who is learning the skill of becoming an accompanist, soprano Elizabeth Mandeno and tenor Oliver Sewell.

Joining the three in their lunchtime recital were previous emerging artists Edward Laurenson, (tenor) Bianca Andrew (Mezzo soprano) and David Kelly, (accompanist)

Opera School executive chairman Donald Trott said the annual event was again only possible due to the generous sponsorship from Wanganui Opera Week (WOW), which organised the luncheon and recital since the school began.

"It is a very special occasion for the school, and we're so very proud to be here once again."