Covid or flu, frost or rain couldn’t prevent more than 30 young singers from as far away as Twizel competed at the recent Green Island Junior Vocal Tournament.
“There are two words for children at this year’s convention: courage and inspiration,” said Chairman Peter Thomson.
“It was pretty moving to see if we would hold the tournament.
“So many young people are sick and haven’t had one-on-one practice time with their teachers for the past two months.”
Just before the tournament, five more singers were pulled out. Even the accompaniment had to send some singers scrambling to find another pianist and cancel madly.
“But in the end we got there and there were some really great performances.”
Christchurch guest judge Sarah Jane Lenny has judged more than 120 individual performances in 44 classes, from musical theaters to sacred songs.
One of the first people to sing at the competition was Peter Choi (10), a student at John McGlashan College. Not knowing what he expected, he was very nervous before moving on.
“I was pretty anxious, and I forgot my words a bit,” he said.
His relief at the end of his first song was obvious, as was his enthusiasm for continuation.
“It was really fun and I’ll be back next year …”
award
Scholarship Recital 14 years and under: Amelia Hollows
Scholarship Recital 16 years and under: Teddy Finney Waters
The best uninterrupted voice: Peter Choi
The most entertaining character: Joseph Kelly
Most promising singer: Teddy Finney Waters
The most improved singer: ava schaumann
60th Anniversary Cup (Encouragement Award, under 12 years old) Haley McDonald
70th Anniversary Cup (12+) Eva Rose Grace
Most Promising Stage Presence): Sam Kelly
Dunedin Entertainers and Orphans Club Scholarships:
Under 10 years old ($ 100) — Jamie Hannagan
Under 12 years old ($ 100) — Carys Williams
Under 14 years old ($ 100) — Ripeka Potiki
Jill Rutherford