24 Apr 2017

Dame Malvina on spotting talent

From Upbeat, 1:50 pm on 24 April 2017
Dame Malvina Major

Dame Malvina Major Photo: Supplied

The Dame Malvina Major Foundation Art Excellence Awards give young artists a financial boost.

On 19 May, applications for the combined Auckland and Hamilton awards will close and successful applicants will perform for a judging panel.

Dame Malvina tells Upbeat's Eva Radich the panel is looking for people with strong communication and performance, but also mental strength – "Has this person got the will and the willingness and the passion?"

She says there are now a huge pool of "good singers" around the world, but you need something more to stand out.

"Sometimes it's not the greatest voice that gets to the top – it's the person with determination."