By Eleanor Davies
FOR most teenagers being thrust into the limelight at 16 with a worldwide selling album would be quite daunting, however, Hayley Westenra, was never phased.
The 23-year-old New Zealand born singer’s debut album, Pure, became the fastest selling debut album from a classical artist, but she took it all in her stride.
“It was quite gradual it never seemed too overwhelming as New Zealand’s not a very big place!” she laughs. “I only got recognised at school and some of my friends made a joke out of it.”
Well it’s no laughing matter now! Since then she has gone on to sell four million records worldwide and has become the latest Forces Sweetheart.
And next week she will be at the Cliffs Pavilion in Southend with the Central Band of the RAF as part of the Battle of Britain 70th anniversary tour.
“The Central Band of the RAF are fantastic musicians, it’s going to be a really special concert,” she says. “The RAF squadron leader will open the show and there will be exerts of poems as well.
“Even though I wasn’t around during that era the songs are really poignant and it will be a wonderful evening. I hope young people come along too, it’s important we know what our ancestors went through.”
And it’s not only supporting the troops that Hayley is passionate about, the songstress is also ambassador for Classic FM’s Music Makers and UNICEF.
“I was invited to become an ambassador for both charities, but I try not to spread myself too far with charity work as I think it waters down what you do.
“It’s really rewarding and works well alongside my singing career and I find it easy to help out.”
Indeed it must be exciting, being a worldwide star who has performed in front of The Queen, Presidents, Prime Ministers and duetted with Andrea Bocelli - to name but a few.
However nothing can comes close, for Hayley, to a moment which happened on her home turf.
“It was a real thrill performing for the All Blacks New Zealand Rugby Team in front of thousands of rugby fans,” she admits. “I'm a huge supporter of them!”
And it’s that down-to-earth attitude which makes Hayley, a real sweetheart.
For more information on the Battle of Britain 70th Anniversary Tour on 7 July, visit www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01702 351135.