Anna Hawkins: Bold, brave, beautiful

Known for her expressive vocals and moving interpretations, Morrinsville singer and recording artist, Anna Hawkins is not one to be boxed in, bringing a classical edge to the world of folk and pop.

Her music and passion have resonated with a growing audience around the world and have driven her in a new direction in 2017 as Anna performs and tours her latest offering Bold, Brave & Beautiful.

Set to be released on March 10, Anna’s third album sees the animated performer promote a new phase of her career - songwriting.

Drawing from a variety of musical inspirations, Anna maintains continuity with her iconic voice and inspirational song selection while experimenting with the style of her original material.

Promising fans a colourful new album, Bold, Brave & Beautiful, represents a more energetic approach, offering musical expression to the themes of freedom, courage and vulnerability.

‘‘For me it represents having fun and being brave. I’m calling it my ‘permission to shine’ album.’’

Her first public performance arrived at just seven years of age where she became a regular entertainer in the NZ Country & Western music circuit.

A highlight of this season includes being a finalist in the prestigious New Zealand Entertainer of the Year awards.

‘‘My heroes at the time were Shania Twain, Faith Hill and Wynonna.

I also have fond memories of times spent in the family home jamming out Irish folk songs till the wee hours of the morning.’’

At age 11 Anna began classical training and almost immediately received national awards for the unusual depth to her voice.

As a solo artist Anna has gone on to tour New Zealand with famed Welsh tenor Paul Potts, singing at the likes of Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park and ASB Classical Sparks in Christchurch where she premiered her original Journey On with the Christchurch Symphony to name a few.

‘‘First and foremost, for me, music is about connecting with people. This is my passion.’’

New Zealand audiences will have ample opportunity to enjoy Anna’s new Bold, Brave & Beautiful show as she hits the road in March and April touring 12 cities before heading back to her new base in the UK.

Her concert in Morrinsville will take place on March 26, at Wallace Gallery.