Old Collegian, Manase Latu (2013) is well remembered from his College days as a quiet student with an amazing voice who took the lead in musicals and won the College Solo Music competition two years in a row. Manase went on to gain a scholarship to study music at The University of Auckland, graduating with a BMus with Honours and is now an Emerging Artist with NZ Opera for 2018. 

Since leaving College to follow his operatic dream, Manase’s talent has continued to evolve and he has been rewarded on a number of occasions.

His most recent accolade was a stunning first place in last weekend’s New Zealand Aria competition; one that came with a significant financial contribution from the Dame Malvina Major foundation.

The New Zealand Aria is well-recognised as one of Australasia’s most prestigious singing competitions. The event is the largest competition of its kind in the country and its fame has spread throughout Australasia’s world of opera. As a result, the competition attracts aspiring opera stars who pit themselves against some of Australasia’s best young singers. It has generated such a widespread reputation that it also attracts a high calibre of judges and conductors with musical experience further enhanced by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. The opportunity this engenders, along with the attractive prize money, helps contribute to further developing the performer in this demanding art and many go on to forge careers in the opera world, both in New Zealand and overseas.

Manase has returned regularly to College since leaving, often to sing at Old Collegian’s functions. Earlier this year, he closed the 65^th Jubilee Dinner at the College with a cheeky rendition of ‘O Sole Mio’ – hamming it up brilliantly for the Saint Kentigern audience! Our guests were in awe of his talent.

Our sincere congratulations to Manase. He is a humble young man who began by singing in his church choir.  His hard work, throughout his college, university years and beyond, is now truly reaping dividends. We are very proud of you!

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