Hayley Westenra is a talented New Zealand singer known for her captivating voice and diverse musical career. Here are some interesting facts about her:
Musical Prodigy: Hayley Westenra displayed her musical talents from a very young age. She began performing in public when she was just six years old, and by the age of 12, she had already received a professional recording contract.
Debut Album Success: Her debut international album, "Pure," was released in 2003 when she was only 16 years old. It went on to become the best-selling debut album by a female classical artist in the history of the UK charts.
Crossover Artist: Hayley is known for her ability to seamlessly blend classical, pop, and folk music in her performances. This crossover appeal has helped her reach a wide and diverse audience.
Variety of Languages: She has sung in multiple languages, including English, Māori, Italian, German, Japanese, Mandarin, and Spanish. Her ability to sing in various languages has contributed to her global popularity.
UNICEF Ambassador: Hayley Westenra has been a UNICEF ambassador since 2003. She has used her fame and influence to raise awareness about issues affecting children worldwide and has participated in various charitable endeavors.
Film and Television: Hayley contributed to the soundtrack of the film "The New World," directed by Terrence Malick, and her rendition of "I Knew I Loved You (Deborah's Theme)" was featured in the film. This song was originally composed by Ennio Morricone.
New Zealand Icon: She is considered one of New Zealand's musical icons and has received numerous awards and accolades in her home country for her contributions to music.
Royal Performances: Hayley has had the honor of performing for several royal families, including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, and Prince William. Her performances have been well-received by royalty and audiences alike.
Diverse Collaborations: Throughout her career, Hayley Westenra has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Andrea Bocelli to José Carreras, and has performed with prestigious orchestras like the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Continued Success: Hayley has released multiple albums over the years and continues to tour and perform globally. Her music has resonated with fans of all ages, and she remains a respected figure in the world of classical and crossover music.
Hayley Westenra's remarkable talent, charitable efforts, and ability to bridge musical genres have made her a beloved figure in the world of music.