TV contract blues send singer off talent stage

Kylie Price got a standing ovation from the New Zealand's Got Talent judges. Photo / Otago Daily Times

Dunedin singer Kylie Price has been forced to leave TVNZ music programme New Zealand's Got Talent.

The 19-year-old University of Otago music student qualified for the semifinals of the programme but was not permitted to continue after she refused to sign an exclusive contract.

"I have been advised by the TV company that I will not now be performing in the semifinals of NZGT," she posted on her Facebook page.

"In order for me to take part in the semifinals of the show I was required to sign contracts that prevented me from performances and other opportunities.

"I truly appreciate everyone's support and kindness both before and during the show and I am looking forward to sharing my journey with you as it continues from here."

Price got a standing ovation from the judges after her rendition of Beyonce's If I Were A Boy, which screened on October 7.

Judge Rachel Hunter described the teenager as "incredibly talented".

Price won the TVNZ Good Morning programme "Find A Star" competition last year and was a guest artist in the Otago Daily Times "Big Night In" community concert.

She was also the overall winner of the 2012 NZ Gold Guitar Awards.

TVNZ spokeswoman Meredith McGrath said last night the conditions were imposed by Imagination Television Limited. "Under the terms of that contract, they are not allowed to talk to the media until 30 days after the transmission of the final programme."