KAYLA COLLINGWOOD contralto
Kayla Collingwood is a New Zealand-born contralto classical singer, music educator, and digital creator based in France.
Kayla’s passion for classical vocal music was ignited as a teenager when she first encountered opera through New Zealand Opera’s production of Jenufa. She later became a member of the Freemasons New Zealand Opera Chorus and made her professional debut in 2016 as the Third Boy in the company’s mainstage production of The Magic Flute. That same year, she was a finalist in the Napier Aria and NZ Aria competitions and was awarded the Anne Bellam Scholarship. She holds a Master of Music in Classical Voice from the University of Auckland and a Graduate Certificate in Theatre Studies from the University of Waikato.
Since relocating to Europe in 2017, Kayla has cultivated a multifaceted freelance career, performing in a wide range of settings across the continent. As a soloist, she specialises in recitals, private events, and oratorio/concert performances, including premieres and performances of works by contemporary composers. She has worked closely with private tutors and coaches in Paris, London, and beyond, which led to a transition from mezzo-soprano to contralto in 2022.
Beyond the stage, Kayla is committed to deepening engagement with classical music through education and digital innovation. She maintains a private teaching studio and has worked with students in crèches and schools across Paris. She is the founder of Sound Garden: Classical Music Immersion, an initiative designed to help people to connect with classical music through innovative workshops and digital content. Her growing expertise in UX/UI design complements her work in music education, allowing her to create more accessible and engaging experiences for learners and listeners.