Arts & Culture: Blenheim’s Rosie McAllister broadens her operatic range

Adrienne Matthews

At just 22, Rosie McAllister is already building a musical story that spans hometown stages, national choirs, and international competitions. Recently back in Blenheim to sing in Handel’s Messiah, Rosie’s return felt both full circle and forward-looking. It was a glimpse of a young artist steadily finding her voice in the world.

Rosie completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Otago. She spent last summer at the New Zealand School of Opera, then travelled with the New Zealand Youth Choir to compete at the European Choir Games in Denmark, where they won two gold medals, and achieved the Choir of the World title at Eisteddfod in Wales.

“We only rehearse a few times a year,” she laughs, “but the passion we bring, especially singing waiata, really matters.”

In March, she heads to Auckland to begin her Honours year. The shift allows her to focus more deeply on voice and particularly classical music and opera, a world she is eager to explore further.

“Opera combines drama, technique, language and emotion,” she says. Music has been part of Rosie’s life since the age of four. Living in Blenheim, she immersed herself in musical theatre, choirs, and children’s productions. A move to Marlborough Girls’ College proved pivotal, where supportive teachers encouraged her into senior choirs and every show and opportunity became a stepping stone.

This made for a leap onto the national stage when she was accepted into the New Zealand Secondary Students’ Choir. Suddenly surrounded by exceptional singers, Rosie faced one of her biggest challenges: confidence.

“It’s daunting,” she says, “to go from being a strong singer in your school to one of many talented musicians.”

Yet that challenge became her catalyst. “Singing alongside peers with advanced sight-reading skills and broader experience sharpened my own musicianship,” Rosie explains.

“Choir life gave me skills like adaptability, blending tone, shaping dynamics, and singing in multiple language,” skills now central to her ambitions.

Inspiration comes easily, especially from the likes of one of her favourite singers, Latvian mezzo-soprano Elīna Garanča, and from unforgettable nights at the Arena di Verona, watching “Carmen” and “Rigoletto” under the stars.

Rosie is grateful for the support she has received, including from the Inspire Foundation. “It’s amazing to know that locals really do care and want to see how you’re improving and encourage you to succeed”.

Her advice to young singers is simple: commit. “If you can’t imagine doing anything else, go all in”.

Judging by her journey so far, this is only the opening act.