Anna Pierard appointed to Dame Malvina Major Foundation

Anna Pierard appointed to Dame Malvina Major Foundation

Acclaimed soprano and Creative Director of Festival Opera Anna Pierard has been appointed as a trustee of the Dame Malvina Major Foundation.

Chair David Jackson says Anna is the perfect fit for a high calibre board whose focus is on ensuring the sustainability of Dame Malvina’s vision to ‘Share the Dream’ with New Zealand’s next generation of talent.

“Anna brings a valuable combination of artistic, charitable and commercial experience to the role. We’re looking forward to her unique perspective and undeniable creativity and energy.”

Based in Napier, Anna completed a Master of Music at the Guildhall School of Music in London before enjoying an opera career in Europe, singing in houses such as La Monnaie, Opera du Rhin and the Palau de la Musica.

After returning to New Zealand following the birth of her first child, in 2013 Anna co-founded Festival Opera and the Project Prima Volta programme, which shines a light on opera as an educative tool, accessible to all young people, regardless of their circumstances.

Anna says she has long admired Dame Malvina, and feels strongly aligned with the objectives of the Foundation, particularly where grass roots are concerned. 

“When I was asked to be a trustee I felt absolutely dizzy with joy. I was also thrilled that the things I would learn as a trustee would help the young people I’m working to support in Hawkes Bay and further afield.

“The Dame Malvina Major Foundation is not just a funding body, it is a friend from afar that always feels nearby – a strong network of supportive people who enable young singers to feel supported and understood, and to receive financial assistance to pursue their dreams.”

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