Singing school signs off with gala finale

The 25th annual New Zealand Singing School came to a close with a Gala Finale at Hawke's Bay Opera House on Saturday.
The 10 day school brought 80 students and 35 tutors together for intense lessons in singing, dance, language tuition and more.
School chairwoman Eileen von Dadelszen said this year went beyond expectations with particularly friendly support students and teachers.
The school welcomed students from 16 up and this set it apart from many other schools which required a music degree.
A DVD audition and at least three years vocal training was required, but the range of ages gave some of the country's most talented young singers the chance to learn from people ahead of them on a career path.
The school's first Artist in Residence, Anna Leese, was extraordinarily beneficial for the students, Mrs von Dadelszen said.
"She was a wonderful role model and was very helpful and accessible at any time and any level," she said.
Saturday's final performance included all the students and played to a good house.
The next school would be held in January 2013. Planning would start next week with dates being picked and preparations started.
"It never stops," Mrs von Dadelszen said.
"It's wonderful."