Shiddharth (Sid) Chand
Having moved to San Francisco to pursue his operatic career, rising star Shiddharth Chand reflects on what he loved about studying Music.
"Music is a beautiful, challenging path, but I would not be where I am if I didn't just dive into the deep end. The people around you, your friends, lecturers, teachers, colleagues and coaches, will be your support structure. I love this career and would have never known that if I had never tried.”
Why did you choose the University of Auckland?
"I chose the University of Auckland to study with Dr Te Oti Rakena. I saw the amazing singers coming out of his studio and wanted to be part of that group.”
How did your study prepare you for your career?
"During my study, I was consistently invited to perform in masterclasses for leading industry singers like Simon O'Neill, Jonathan Lemalu, Pene Pati and Amina Edris. They all inspired me and have been crucial to my career trajectory.”
I loved all the music staff I studied with. It genuinely felt like we were family. The teachers inspired me to open my mind to other aspects of music – rather than just singing my songs.
What did you enjoy most about the degree?
"I value the sense of community cultivated at the School of Music. We singers developed together, navigating challenges and great times. Now that many of us are overseas, we look back and are so grateful to have these stories to tell."
What advice would you give to future students?
"If you are deciding what to study but love music and don't see yourself doing anything else, study music!"
Shiddharth is an operatic tenor studying at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.