2012 Lexus Song Quest International Judge Announced

2012 Lexus Song Quest International Judge Announced

One of the world’s leading operatic tenors is to judge the 2012 Lexus Song Quest. Distinguished Welsh tenor Dennis O’Neill, CBE, was announced today as the judge for New Zealand’s most prestigious contest for promising young opera singers. O’Neill has performed with all the world’s major opera companies and is a renowned classical recording artist. He specialises in the works of Verdi and has sung 21 of his roles.

A seasoned adjudicator, O’Neill has given masterclasses throughout the world. He is currently Director of the Wales International Academy of Voice and has presented a popular BBC TV series on opera.

Entries for the 2012 Lexus Song Quest open today. “The Lexus Song Quest continues the rich traditions of past contests over 50 years, providing a platform for young, talented singers to develop, perform and gain exposure both nationally and internationally,’’ says Lexus New Zealand’s National Manager, Debbie Pattullo.

The Lexus Song Quest final will be held at the Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington, on 30 August 2012. The Lexus Song Quest Prize winner, runner-up and third prize-winner all receive a cash prize and study scholarship. Past winners of this top New Zealand award for young opera singers include Jonathan Lemalu and, in 2009, Aivale Cole. “We are proud today to see former Lexus Song Quest entrants gracing stages across the world,’’ says New Zealand International Arts Festival Executive Chair, Kerry Prendergast. “The 2012 New Zealand International Arts Festival will feature no less than three previous winners: Martin Snell, Phillip Rhodes and Jonathan Lemalu.’’

In 2012, the Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation will fund the Lexus Song Quest Masterclasses and the Dame Malvina Major Foundation will fund the Lexus Song Quest runner-up prize. Preliminary judges for the 2012 Lexus Song Quest are Sharolyn Kimmorley, AM, regarded as one of Australia’s finest vocal coaches, accompanists and mentors to emerging singers, and eminent New Zealand bass-baritone, Rodney Macann.

To support New Zealand singers and their teachers, Dennis O’Neill will conduct a series of Lexus Song Quest Masterclasses throughout New Zealand, following the Lexus Song Quest. Entries for the 2012 Lexus Song Quest close on 30 March, 2012.

For further information, go to www.festival.co.nz.

ENDS

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