The Nelson Vocal Recital and Aria Competitions have attracted a prestigious sponsor that puts them at the top of the regional aria competitions for prize value.

Wim Oosterhoff, president of the Nelson Performing Arts Competitions’ society (NPAC) says Sealord has been the major sponsor since 2003 and will continue to support the event this year, with the Dame Malvina Major Foundation coming in as the new sponsor.

“Sealord will provide $4,000 prize money, and the Dame Malvina Major Foundation will sponsor an increased first prize of $5,000,” he said, “that puts us straight at the top of the regional aria competitions with a prize pool of over $11,000.”

Tima Consulting, the main sponsor of the Vocal Recital, the precursor of the Aria Competition held cabaret-style at Warwick House - has increased its contribution to $2,000. This event will be held on Friday 5 August in two sessions; in the afternoon “Tea and Song” and in the evening “Supper and Song”. From the recital contestants, the adjudicator will choose eight singers to compete in the Aria Competition on Saturday 6 August in the School of Music. Dame Malvina Major will attend as a guest of NPAC.

“With the increased sponsor support, we are confident we will attract many high-calibre singers to Nelson in August,” says Wim. “Entries don’t close until July, but I already have indicators from all over the country that interest is running high.”

Like last year, the audience can vote on the evening of the Aria Competition for the People’s Choice award, donated by the Nelson Building Society.

ENDS

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