Challenge Accepted!

This is the theme of Cecily Shaw’s next vocal recital, coming at the end of January to Palmerston North, Whanganui and Marton. She will be accompanied by the expert Manawatu pianist Guy Donaldson.

Mezzo-soprano Shaw, 27, has been studying singing at the University of Waikato, and recently graduated M Mus. She is regularly in demand as a soloist, currently singing in performances of the Messiah in Hamilton and Tauranga, and recently in Mozart’s Requiem in Whanganui. She has attended three Opera Schools in Whanganui and this year appeared in the NZ Opera Chorus in Handel’s Semele in Auckland. In addition to performing, Shaw is currently working at a variety of part-time music jobs, and is hoping for the world of international travel and study to open up again. These recitals are timed for the end of her summer break while visiting family.

Shaw researched the experience of neurodiversity amongst musicians for her Master’s thesis, a topic dear to her heart as she herself is on the autism spectrum. Her recital celebrates neurodiverse composers and characters in music, ranging widely from opera, oratorio and art song to comedy, and will include some of her own highly original ukulele songs.