School children vie for Horotiu Idol top honours

They may have been young, inexperienced and short on stature but they made up for it with enthusiasm and guts.

In fact, that elusive ingredient, talent, was in abundance at the final of Horotiu Primary School’s first ever Horotiu Idol.

Sixteen acts performed to a packed hall, with the top three winning the opportunity to record their song with music producer Phillip Thornton.

Twelve-year-old Bronson Ola took home first prize for his rendition of Amy Winehouse’s Valerie.

“I love performing and singing in front of a crowd.  It feels so good to let yourself go and be free,” Bronson said.

Nerves began to kick in as the judges reached their decision, said Bronson.

“I was very nervous, but when they said my name I was very humble.  I just want to focus on my singing and acting career and give the world a taste of what I’ve got.”

Proud principal Jeff Stewart said performing arts were becoming an integral part of the school’s culture.

“We have music productions every second year, and we wanted to have something in between to keep the kids focussed on singing and performing in front of an audience.”

Taking part in productions taught children important skills such as working hard to produce something of worth, supporting each other, and gaining confidence, he said.

“It was a fantastic night, with a very supportive, enthusiastic crowd of parents, relatives and friends of the children.

“I was amazed at the talent that was displayed, especially in front of a big audience when nerves tend to take over a little bit.  The children acted like true professionals.”

Second place went to Kyro Bell – son of Katchafire drummer Jordan Bell – with his impressive electric drum skills; and third went to Charli Crawford singing Colbie Caillat’s Bubbly.