"I love what I do and I think people can see that."
The 17-year-old Otago Boys High pupil recently returned from his first trip to the Tamworth Country Music Festival in Australia, where he tasted success in two talent quests.
He won the Jazzer Quest from 120 other musicians and was runner-up in the Entertainer of the Year senior section.
"It was rough competition - I was up against people of all ages."
It was another boost to his confidence after he won the New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards intermediate title last year.
Mitchell is now keen to see where music will take him, having discovered a love of the "road trip" aspect to music.
"It was the best 10 days of my life.
I just love the scene - the moving around."
Mitchell was one of 13 acts entertaining at the family fun day, organised by The Lions Club of Dunedin North Spokesman Peter Begg said the event supported the Ótago Community Hospice.
"Many in our region will have at some time needed the services of the hospice, but may be unaware of the acute need for ongoing funds, in order to continue with the present patient facilities."
While it was difficult to estimate numbers, he believed up to 3000 people might have visited the event throughout the day, with many donations made.
