This year we have one new Scholar and two returning. Iya Jarbadan is our newest member of the Soprano section. Alfred Shum and Taylor Moffat return to the Bass section after successful previous years. Additional congratulations to Taylor for also becoming Head Boy of Papamoa College.
To get to know them better, we asked our 2016 scholarship members some questions:
Iya Jarbadan
New Member
So, as the newest member of Scholars Pro Musica (now Scholars Baroque Aotearoa), how did you hear about us and the Scholarship programme?
I heard about Scholars Pro Music and the Scholarship programme from my singing teacher (and fellow Scholars Pro Musica Soprano Jan Beets).
When was your first experience in singing, either on your own or in a choir?
My first experience in singing started about Year 5 in primary school, and also around that time I started singing lessons as well.
What would you like to get out of this year with Scholars Pro Musica and the programme?
I would like to gain experience in singing with a professional choir and I do hope this can help in improving my skills.
Alfred Shum
Returning Member
Why have you returned to Scholars Pro Musica (now Scholars Baroque Aotearoa) this year?
This is my second year as a Scholar in Scholars Pro Musica, and I'm really excited for the year to come. Scholars Pro Musica has an incredible atmosphere of family. It's a comfortable, enjoyable and friendly place that makes for a great time singing astounding music.
What are you looking forward to in the 2016 Season?
This year I hope to improve myself as a chorister and immerse myself into greater depths of the rich musical culture that is provided by Scholars Pro Musica.
Taylor Moffat
Returning Member
Why have you returned to Scholars Pro Musica (now Scholars Baroque Aotearoa) this year?
I've returned to the Scholars Pro Musica this year because plain and simple, it was such a rewarding experience the first time. Throughout 2015's season I gained so much musical knowledge and experience that I just had to come back and build on it again this year. Also, the people within the choir I've met along the way were a great incentive.
What are you looking forward to in the 2016 Season?
I am specifically looking forward to working on the Messiah again, it was called back by popular demand for good reason! Besides that, the new pieces are always a welcoming challenge and in general I am very excited for the music that I get to listen to and perform in the coming months.
