Three Dunedin singers, tenor Alexander Wilson, soprano Grace Park and baritone Kawiti Waetford (all 21), are among the six finalists in this year's Lexus Song Quest in Wellington tonight.
Only three Dunedin singers have previously won the competition, New Zealand's most prestigious music prize, in its 55-year history: Martin Snell (1993), Jonathan Lemalu (1998) and Anna Leese (2002).
All three went on to establish international singing careers.
Ms Park said last night from Wellington the three University of Otago music students and close friends were looking forward to tonight's final.
"It's very exciting, but I'm also a bit nervous. We just had a rehearsal with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, which was amazing. It's going to be a great experience for us."
Mr Wilson said yesterday was the first time he had sung with an orchestra.
"I'm really looking forward to the final, but I'm also a little nervous, to be honest. I'm just looking forward to getting in there and doing it."
Mr Waetford praised the influence of their University of Otago teachers, Isabel Cunningham, Judy Bellingham and Prof Terence DennisThe other finalists are Auckland countertenor Stephen Diaz (24), Auckland tenor Amitai Pati (22) and New Plymouth soprano Bryony Williams (22).
The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize, $15,000 study grant and return international airfares.
