Shanul Sharma

A one-time heavy metal singer, Shanul Sharma has gone from performing in black t-shirts to black tie as an operatic tenor. Shanul is a perfect example of an older yet still early career artist to receive a Cultural Trust grant.

In his early 30s, Shanul only recently began a career in opera. His first professional performance was in 2014 appearing in Opera Australia’s Victorian School Tour. Since then he has been a featured soloist at high profile opera concerts in Melbourne and Victoria, singing alongside Cheryl Barker AO, Greta Bradman, David Hobson, Marina Prior and Teddy Tahu Rhodes.

Now at a point in his career where he seeks to audition and be accepted for 'Main Stage' productions, Shanul requires bespoke tuition with internationally renowned coaches to enable him to learn the techniques required to succeed at an international level. Attending the Wales International Academy of Voice in Cardiff will provide Shanul with the necessary skills and experience to reach the next stage of his singing career.

Two months after commencing at the Wales International Academy of Voice, Shanul kindly took the time to update us on his studies...

"It's now been two whole months since I embarked on my musical journey and I am happy to report that so far so good; things are well and truly going to plan! The feedback on my singing has been very positive and my musicality especially has been highly praised. I have had one on one coachings with several high profile conductors, repetiteurs and language coaches and masterclasses with established artists such as Susan Bullock and Della Jones. One masterclass that I hold dear to me was the one with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa which was about a fortnight ago. She was very encouraging and helped me discover colours in my voice I never thought I had! She is truly an exceptional coach and an artist worthy of her accolades.

My lessons with maestro Dennis O’Neill have set me on a path to discovering my inner and outer voice. He is an amazing human being and vocal technician and can still sing most singers off the stage! The intense focus of his sound and teaching methodology is synonymous with ease. He is a great mentor and is hell bent on helping those who seek his knowledge; which believe me is vast!

I have also been given the opportunity to sing at concerts organised by the academy and have been received well by the public here. I guess being the only tenor this year has it’s benefits!

In closing I would like to add that none of the above would have been possible in the slightest without your generous contribution. I am very fortunate indeed to have all your support and I hope I prove to be a worthy recipient of your generosity."