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Matthew Leese, a young Kiwi music student, is off to the United States to further his studies, all due to the generosity of two benefactors. New Zealand singer Matthew Leese was astounded when two benefactors donated $34,000 so that he could continue his studies at the Longy Institute of Music, Boston in the United States. The 22-year-old student had heard that the Institute had accepted him for a postgraduate course in early music but was unsure as to how he would raise the $20,000 needed for his living expenses and fees. Although the Institute had granted a three-quarter scholarship for the course starting on August 23, 2001 there was still a shortfall that put Matthew's attendance at the school in doubt. The Napier born singer was astounded as to the generosity of these two strangers "I don't know where to start. I can't even get my head around why they would want to do this"he remarked. The benefactors, both of whom wish to remain anonymous, made only one stipulation with their gift: that he works hard and takes every opportunity in his life to help other people. One, an American on holiday in Wanaka, had read the young singer’s story (originally published in the Otago Daily Times) by chance. Having studied in Boston and with an interest in music himself he felt this was an investment in the future and did not think to gain any advantage from his generous action "I don't expect to make any money out of it, that's not why I do it" he said. It is no surprise that Matthew has come so far in his chosen career as music features strongly in his family background. His mother is a piano and singing teacher in Napier, his eldest sister has produced a CD of her original compositions and is currently a member of a band in the Netherlands, and his younger sister is studying singing at the University of Otago. A member of Tower New Zealand Youth Choir, director of Otago Camerata and a graduate of Otago University himself Matthew plans to leave New Zealand sometime in early September 2001 although he is uncertain as to when he will return home. One thing is certain however: the voice of Matthew Leese will be gaining wider recognition in the years to come. ©Jen Longshaw
2001-2005
Please do not copy in any manner, print or electronic,
without permission from the author.
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If
a New Zealander asks if you're feeling crook should you be insulted
or touched at his consideration? And why is going to bed with a hottie
no reason to get excited in the Land of the Long White Cloud?
