NZで発売されている雑誌「New Idea 12th April 2008」で紹介された記事。
OUR HAYLEY TURNS 21
The internationally lauded popera princess has had plenty of practice at being grown up
Traditionally, turning 21 is a coming of age celebration, but for New Zealand success story Hayley Westenra, who reaches the milestone this week, the transition to adulthood happened years ago.
'They used to give 21-yearolds the key to the house, but I own my own flat in London and I'm pretty independent already,' Hayley tells New Idea from the UK.
'So it's not a huge deal.'
The popera princess' record company is throwing a bash to celebrate the milestone event, but it will be a more muted affair than her glitzy 18th birthday, which was attended by singer Daniel Bedingfield and members of Kiwi rock band The Datsuns.
'It was a very memorable birthday,' Hayley recalls. 'My mother and sister were over here and then my brother and dad surprised me by turning up at the hotel- I burst into tears.
'There were hoards of photographers outside, so it was very starry. Daniel Bedingfield encouraged me to buy my first alcoholic beverage.'
Unfortunately, Hayley's family won't be in London this year, but the sweet-natured star isn't letting that dampen her spirits. She has plenty to celebrate with her album Treasure in line for a prestigious Classical BRIT Award.
Hayley has been nominated before, but this is the first year people outside the UK are able to vote - giving her a real chance to nudge out previously dominant Welsh singers.
'I found it disheartening when other artists were getting their countries behind them,'says Hayley, who was famously discovered while busking on the streets of Christchurch.
'I'm hoping New Zealand will get behind me this year.'
A win would be the icing on Hayley's birthday cake, and another highlight in what has been a glittering career.
'This past year in particular, I have grown up a lot,' Hayley says. 'With every passing year, I'm becoming that little bit more sure of myself and of who I am. I'm realising what makes me happy and what I want from life. As a vocalist I am becoming more confident and more relaxed,' she continues.
'I don't over-think as much as I used to. I don't go into the studio thinking how I want to sound, I just sing it. I'm learning more about myself and my abilities.'
●To help Hayley to win a Classical BRIT Award, vote at www.classicalbrits.co.uk.
Voting closes on April 11.
Hayley on her 11th birthday with siblings Sophie and Isaac.
