Operation Get Me to Wales

Overview

My name is Andrew Grenon, and I have been offered a place at the Wales New Zealand Academy of Voice (WIAV) for the 2014/2015 academic year. I need to raise a total of NZ$45,000 (�23,000) to meet tuition fees, living costs, travel to the UK, and my visa application.

About me

I have proven myself at a New Zealand level here in New Zealand. I have sung with most of the major orchestras and opera companies, including as a soloist with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and in principal roles for New Zealand Opera (NZO). I was a finalist in the 2009 New Zealand Aria Competition and I was a Dame Malvina Major Foundation New Zealand Opera Emerging Artist for 2009/10. I am currently a Freemasons Resident Artist in that company and this year I sang the role of Gastone in their production of Verdi's La Traviata.

Why donate?

I have remained committed to ongoing study and professional improvement. During the 2014 New Zealand Opera School in Wanganui, I received an intensive series of lessons from world-class tenor Dennis O'Neill, who was a regular artist at the New York Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House Covent Garden. Dennis is the Director of the WIAV, and at the end of my two weeks in Wanganui he offered me a place in the academy.
Dennis's official written confirmation arrived shortly after:

"This is to certify that Mr Grenon worked with me during my recent visit as Professor of Voice at the New Zealand Opera School. I had no hesitation in offering him a place on our MA in Advanced Vocal Studies, which begins in late September this year.

"He is gifted with a voice of particularly beautiful timbre and is musical and intelligent. He has already got a deal of professional experience but I have no doubt that this course will give him the vocal assurance that will enable him to compete at an New Zealand level."

I am experienced, I am committed, and I believe I have what it takes to succeed at an elite level once I have finished my studies.

Fundraising Plan

I have so far raised $28,000 towards my $45,000 goal with two fundraiser concerts to go. With this Boosted campaign I plan to raise $15,000 in 30 days to get me over the line. Any contribution you can make towards this target will be gratefully received and greatly appreciated, and will give me the best possible chance of a long and successful New Zealand singing career.

Sincerely,

Andrew Grenon