News from around the world - Edward Laurenson
Posted on 15 April 2016
Time is flying by so quickly. Winter is approaching in London and the days are noticeably shorter and colder.
While I was back in New Zealand for the long break I spent much of my time doing preparatory work on some new pieces I had chosen for the start of this new academic year. This has really helped to get things off to a good start and has meant that I could immediately concentrate on working on my vocal technique rather than learning new repertoire.
I also had time to reflect on my first year at the Guildhall and review and develop my goals for the next few years. I took advantage of the opportunities to become more involved with the various Clubs and Societies at Goodenough College. Last year I was so busy finding my feet in London that Orientation just flew by in a flash. I’ve also moved into a different room in Goodenough, which is more centrally located and closer to the shared services.
Early in the term, I was fortunate to be selected to sing for Dr. Brian Zeger in a public masterclass. Brian has been on the faculty of The Julliard School since 1993, Artistic Director of Vocal Arts at Julliard since 2004, and is currently the Executive Director of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Programme. I learned a lot from this opportunity and received some very positive feedback. It was an honour to sing for such an accomplished musician and I appreciated the interest he took afterwards in learning more about my career aspirations.
I have also had the opportunity to participate in a further Masterclass with David Gowland (Artistic Director of The Jette Parker Young Artists Programme at The Royal Opera House). He had heard me sing on a previous occasion and it was encouraging to get feedback that indicated he thought my voice had developed.
Early in November I was invited by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa to attend a Masterclass she was conducting at the Royal College of Music. This was a wonderful evening and an opportunity to sit and observe Kiri working with other singers. Recently Dame Kiri invited me and several other singers from the Foundation down to her home for intensive one-to-one coaching, and I am looking forward to going back down this weekend. I find it incredibly valuable to have these opportunities to work on my new pieces. I always benefit tremendously from her advice and expertise and know they really assist my development.
Recently I was honoured to be the recipient of an AMP ‘Do Your Thing’ National Scholarship. To be among so many incredible New Zealanders, all excelling in their fields was truly humbling. As many of you know, I am returning in December to perform at several events and hopefully a recital.