Aivale Cole is the winner of the 2009 Lexus Song Quest, New Zealand’s most prestigious singing award. The 32 year old Perth-based opera singer won $25,000 plus travel and study scholarships at the Auckland final. She impressed the judges with her performances of John Carter’s Peter Go Ring dem Bells, Strauss’ Es Gibt ein Reich and Verdi’s Ritorna Vincitor (Aida) in the orchestral section. Aivale said was ecstatic to win: “this was my last opportunity to be in the contest so I knew I had to give it everything,” she said. Judge Siegfried Jerusalem had high praise for all six finalists but said that Aivale Cole was “technically and musically ahead”. He added, “the way she presented and performed was very nearly perfect. I have no doubt she has a wonderful career ahead of her.” Past winners of the contest include Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Dame Melvina Major, and Jonathan Lemalu.
Tagata Pasifika feature on Aivale Cole at the 2007 Lexus Song Quest
