A young singer from Hawke’s Bay has just landed one of the most coveted opportunities in the opera world.

Emmanuel Fonoti-Fuimaono has been accepted into The Royal Opera’s Jette Parker Artist Programme in London. He is one of only a handful of singers selected from over 600 applicants worldwide – and the first New Zealander to ever be offered an audition without having studied outside of New Zealand.

Emmanuel, a tenor, is a graduate of Project Prima Volta (PPV), Te Pae Kōkako – The Aotearoa New Zealand Opera Studio (TANZOS), and New Zealand Opera’s Dame Malvina Major Studio Artist programme.

This announcement follows another major milestone, with Emmanuel also joining the prestigious Merola Opera Program in San Francisco this year before making the move to London.

For Emmanuel, this marks a life-changing step. He comments:

“From growing up in Flaxmere to stepping onto one of the world’s greatest opera stages, this is a dream come true. 

“I’m incredibly grateful to the many people who have supported and encouraged me over the past ten years. To now have the Royal Opera House as my training ground for the next two years is an incredible opportunity, and I plan to make the most of every moment.

“I’d like to personally thank my vocal teacher, Nikki-Li Hartliep, and my coach, David Harper, for their continuous support. A huge thank you also to Dame Malvina and the Dame Malvina Major Foundation, Sir William and Lady Judi Gallagher, Dame Jenny Gibbs, Madeleine and Anna Pierard, Murray Lopdell-Lawrence, Paul and Carol Stigley, and the New Zealand Opera School.”

Dame Malvina Major, whose Foundation has long supported Emmanuel’s development, says his success reflects the extraordinary talent emerging from New Zealand.

“Emmanuel’s success is a shining example of the exceptional talent we have in Aotearoa. His dedication, perseverance, and artistry have taken him to one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world.”

PPV founder and director Anna Pierard says Emmanuel’s success is a testament to his own drive and determination. “Emmanuel was part of the very first PPV cohort in 2014, and even then, his ability to connect with music and audiences was extraordinary. His success is entirely his own – driven by talent, hard work, and a deep passion for his craft. It has been a privilege to see him grow, and I have no doubt he will thrive on the international stage.”

Meet Emmanuel in this brief video profile here.