EVERY singer’s dream is to grace the stage in the City That Never Sleeps, and Chewko’s own Albina Niceforo realised that dream this week as she performed at the Carnegie Hall on Saturday in New York City.
Albina’s trip to the Big Apple was part of the 2018/19 Forte International Music Competition, where she made it to the final round of the competition after successfully proceeding through the preliminary and semi-final rounds last year via video submissions.
Albina’s selection to perform at the Forte International Music Competition caps off a sensational 12 months for the 12 year old, whose recent achievements include winning the Innisfail Young Performers Competition, the Beavon Family Award, PakMag Magazine Cairns Talent Quest and the Redlands Sporting Club Vocal Competition – all of which came in 2018.
Added to that, Albina was named the Evolution Dance Competition’s National Final winner of the Vocal Solo 10-11 years section, beating out some of the best performers for her age from across Australia and New Zealand on her way to the award.
Albina said she is really surprised to have made the finals in New York City.
“I am so excited to meet young people who enjoy classical music as much as I do,” she said.
“I believe I will gain valuable advice on how I can enhance my performances by performing at Carnegie Hall, and this concert will give me the opportunity to see how a professional theatre is run and to get constructive feedback from industry professionals.”
Albina’s musical talent appears to come naturally to her; however it’s anything but as she noted that it is something she works tirelessly on.
“I do work hard at my craft, and part of my study is watching classical singers’ performances,” she said.
“It is a bit like watching your opponent’s videos in sports, you try and get the best of each performer you watch and then try to create your own character on stage.”
“I believe singing well is only part of the performance, as stagecraft and song selection are also extremely important.”
Albina took time to thank those who have played an pivotal role in her continued success.
“I need to especially thank my mum and dad who have helped me so much,” she said.
“Without them I am not able to have the spectacular costumes or travel to national or even international festivals and competitions.”
Albina said she has aspirations to continue her Classical training for the Voice, Piano and Guitar disciplines, with dreams to be a classically trained singer and have the opportunity to perform in the Sydney Opera House as well as overseas.
Albina’s mum Carmelina said she is very proud of the humble, sweet girl Albina is.
“I think Albina’s success stems from her wonderful nature and attitude,” she said.
“I enjoy watching Albina’s love of classical music grow.”
Albina’s young yet successful singing career continues to put Mareeba on the performing arts map, and to have the long list of accomplishments she has at just 12 years of age, the sky is the limit for the local product.
Caption: Albina Niceforo received a gold award on Saturday in New York at the Forte International Music competition.
