The Elite Vocal Ensemble from Vocalocity (Singing Studio in Leura Mall) travelled to Canberra earlier this month to participate in the Australian National Eisteddfod. Representing young talent from the Blue Mountains in the Open Choral Group section of the Australian Choral Challenge, they were awarded first place.
The Vocalocity group consists of Upper Blue Mountains high school students who are committed to striving for musical excellence, coming together every week from different schools to sing together as one.
Vocalocity director and contemporary voice specialist singing teacher, Amelia Nell, established the group in January.
“These kids are very talented and extremely dedicated. They work hard, practise in their own time outside of the studio and are very deserving of their success at this prestigious event,” she said.
“When they get up on stage, they give it their absolute all - I could not ask more of them. We are a close knit group and I’m absolutely thrilled that their talent and dedication has been recognised on a national level. We’re over the moon.”
Given the young age of the singers in the group, their win was particularly impressive as they were up against more established and experienced choirs.
Choral music specialist and adjudicator of the eisteddfod, Sharon Batterham, wrote in her adjudication comments: “A well prepared, thoroughly enjoyable performance. The ensemble of the group, the way you sing together, shows a real affinity with the style of music you present. The tuning tonight was excellent across the group, and I applaud the engagement you had with each other, the music and the audience.”
