"I remember seeing Kiri in a concert many years ago before she left for England. It was my first ever "classical" concert (I was about 10 years old) and I absolutely loved it. It truly opened my eyes to a whole new world of music. And the items were not really "Opera" - mainly more accessible songs. Then, I would have to rate her sound track songs in "Room with a View" as some of the most exquisite songs I have heard. So, although I have the greatest respect for Dame Malvina (and I have been lucky enough to hear her singing years ago in the Church choir of my mother's Church in New Plymouth at midnight mass), particularly for her work with young singers in New Zealand, I would rate Kiri as my favourite. I feel she brings a special quality to all her work and is instantly recognisable. To hear them both together will be the absolute highlight of my summer."
Gemma Schumacher’s Comments
on Dame Malvina Major and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa 3 years ago