Will Martin takes your requests

Will Martin will play anything for his concert at Bruce Mason Centre. Photo / Supplied

Will Martin spends most of the year in the UK, where he's sung alongside the likes of British soprano Lesley Garrett and performed in front of thousands at the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Stadium.
But this autumn, the Kiwi is enjoying a lengthy stay at home in Auckland, where he is rehearsing for By Request, a concert dedicated to mothers all over New Zealand.

The classical crossover artist came up with the concept - allowing the audience to choose the songs ahead of the show - a few years ago in London.

Martin wanted to bring a more modern feel to how classical and easy-listening music was presented and so decided to hand over control to the crowd.

"I got to thinking about how if you go to a rock or pop concert, quite often people shout out their favourite songs and on the spot the band will do it," he says.

The show proved a huge success and he is now bringing the idea back home for a one-off performance at the Bruce Mason Centre the night before Mother's Day.

Already Martin's website has been flooded with requests, but only songs voted for numerous times will make the final set list.

He laughs at the suggestion he may end up having to perform an AC/DC number. The 25-year-old singer admits there is one song that will definitely make the cut.

"Mum's already requested Nights in White Satin. I don't think many people would be where they were if it wasn't for their mums, so it'll be cool for her to be there."

Will Martin performs at the Bruce Mason Centre on Auckland's North Shore on May 8. To request a song visit www.willmartin.co.nz.