Behind every outstanding music programme is an exceptional educator, and at The Cathedral Grammar School we are fortunate to have Nicola Holt leading our specialist music programme.
Born in Dunedin, Nicola studied voice and piano performance at the University of Otago before completing a Master of Music in Performance Singing from Victoria University and a Diploma from the Koninklijk Conservatorium in The Hague, The Netherlands.
Nicola brings a wealth of professional performance experience to Cathedral Grammar. As a soprano soloist, choral singer and musical director, she has performed throughout New Zealand and Europe. She has sung with the New Zealand Youth Choir and, while studying in Holland, performed with professional ensembles across Europe. Since returning to New Zealand in 2003, she has been in demand as a soloist, with performances including Monteverdi's Vespers of 1610 with Bach Musica New Zealand and Handel's Messiah with the Christchurch City Choir.
Alongside her performance career, Nicola is a passionate music educator and conductor. During her time directing Lyrica, the Kelburn Normal School Choir toured New Zealand with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and recorded a CD of These Arms to Hold You by Eve de Castro Robinson.
At Cathedral Grammar, Nicola's vision is to provide students with a breadth of musical opportunities delivered by exceptional music educators and professional musicians. From choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles to contemporary bands and individual tuition, students are encouraged to discover their talents, build confidence and experience the joy of making music together.
Our itinerant music programme is delivered by specialist tutors who are active performers and respected professionals within New Zealand's music community, including members of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. This exposure to high-quality music teaching ensures students learn from experienced practitioners while developing a lifelong appreciation of music.
Under Nicola's leadership, students learn from a team of specialist music educators who bring real-world performance experience into the classroom, rehearsal space and performance setting, inspiring young musicians to aim high and explore a wide range of musical pathways.
Whether performing in a choir, learning an instrument, participating in a contemporary band or representing the school in competition, students are encouraged to develop not only their musical ability, but also confidence, discipline, teamwork and a lifelong appreciation of the arts.
Most recently, our Year 7 and 8 chamber ensemble, the Grammar Players, were awarded the Best Newcomer Award at the Christchurch Regional NZ Chamber Music Competition — a reflection of the commitment, teamwork and musical excellence that Nicola inspires in her students every day.
Nicola's expertise, passion and unwavering belief in young people continue to shape a vibrant music culture at Cathedral Grammar. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunities she creates and the impact she has on the lives of our students.