The young Sydney-born mezzo talks to us about her gifts, goals, going abroad.

BORN SYDNEY, 1985
LIVES LONDON
STUDIED UNSW
LIKES BLUE SKIES, SUNDAY BRUNCHES, CATCHING UP WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY


What was it that made you want to become an opera singer?

So many things! Playing Yum-Yum in a school production of The Mikado at the age of 14; hearing a Joan Sutherland CD for the first time; and some early successes in the local Eisteddfods which gave me confidence in my abilities. I also can’t emphasise enough how important my first singing teachers were in encouraging me at a vital age.

What made you decide to apply for training in London? 

I love London’s buzz – plus you’re so close to the rest of Europe that you can hear the best international artists perform live. You also have access to some world-class teachers and coaches.

So how did you go about getting a place at the Royal College of Music?

I was in London and met with the head of the vocal faculty. Really I just wanted to know if I stood any chance – the RCM only selects about 20 singers out of 400 every year. He...