Soprano Anna Howley is in Year 12 at Hornby High School, and plays the clarinet and drums. “This is a really awesome opportunity,” Anna said.” It’s not often that young people get such an opportunity and I love it. There’s so much power in the sounds we make and some parts are hard for me, especially the Latin but it’s beautiful and I absolutely love it. It’s definitely the highlight of my year.”

Tenor William Warner (17) in Year 13 at Mairehau High School is the only male singer with a scholarship this year. “This is an overwhelming and amazing experience, to be working with Brian Law and having the chance to perform with famous soloists and in front of a large audience,” William said. “I’ve been soloist in school productions but this is a wonderful opportunity and will definitely make me look to include music in my future.”

Soprano-alto Evangeline Breuer is in Year 10 at Christchurch Girls’ High School and like the others, was encouraged by her school music teacher. She is studying Grade Six Singing and Theory and plans to study Performance at university. “The Student Scholarship scheme is well organised and we’re going to get a lot of help and guidance from really experienced singers.”