Hi, my name is Lala and I grew up in the unique island of Madagascar and permanently moved to New Zealand in 2002. I am very passionate about the music and dance of my country of origin and would love for you to experience the fascinating fusion of music of this beautiful land. My love of music and languages have also led me to develop an interest in other cultures and collect songs from around the world. Connections, belonging and creating supportive communities are values that are very important to me and singing as I have experienced and seen many times over is a great way to achieve this.
" Our house has been changed ever since our daughters joined last year, filled with singing in many different languages. It has increased their confidence, and in general just added to the joy of their lives. I particularly admire the way in which you respect and encourage whatever every child brings with them - allowing each of them room to shine. The visit to the rest home was a highlight, as valuable for the children and parents as it appeared to be for the residents. Too often it seems to me, parts of our society are sectioned off from each other: it was inspiring and moving to see the children and old people interacting. I was proud, watching my daughters, and rather in awe of the children in general. Then the public performance this month showed your group of children working like a professional choir - taught real skills as well as pleasure. We're grateful to be part of this. I am an Associate Professor, teaching Creative Writing at Massey University, adding an additional level of appreciation in seeing such a brilliant teacher at work. Thank you."
Ingrid Horrocks-Mother of 2 members of the Manawa Ora Children Community Choir
"That was wicked!!! When is next time?"
James 4 years old, after attending weekly singing session.
" You are very good. You know how to talk to children. I like the way you teach"
An older brother watching from the sideline as his two sisters participated in a music session.
"Lala is much more than a teacher of singing - she is a community builder, a networker and a connector of people around the focus of singing. Her choirs bring in all sorts from the community and through her warmth and enthusiasm, people discover a love for singing and build friendships with others."
Bronwyn Wood-Member of Kotaba Women Community Choir
"Lala a skilled and charismatic song leader & song writer. She has a rich repetoire of music, song and dance from her own cultural background as well as her ability to embrace and teach many others. I am grateful for all the wonderful new songs Lala taught us. It opened up a whole new world of music, rhythm and dance to me. Lala is also a dancer. She choreographed and teaches us many wonderful movements & sequences to accompany our singing. She makes learning fun!"
Kerry Barlow-Member of Kotaba Women Community Choir
"Having Lala as a co-director has brought back the African songs side that I loved along with the moving and dancing to these songs. She also ensures we learn to use our vocals better and are schooled into the best version of the music by not allowing us to get lazy. It is great for physical health , coordination and mental health-described in one word as Joyful."
Anne Norton-Member of the Wellington Community Choir
"Under Covid-19 Lockdown Lala was able to adapt quickly to Zoom, this very new and strange way of teaching. She was the only choir master of the four I had regular contact with that was able to continue with teaching choir in a way that was well rehearsed. It was apparent that she had tested this new technology before she came "on air" under the very new mass zoom meeting scenario. What she offered was well prepared and repeatedly in all sessions went ahead without any technical glitches. With all backing tapes and support recordings instantly at hand. Her teachings were delivered in a fun way. Her bubbly personality shone through with her teaching, both on air and when she is in front of us all in person.
Harilalao has made singing fun, she has broadened my horizons in her choice of songs she teaches. She is a very good listener in both an individual setting and also when leading a group of 100 plus singers. She is able to check in constantly and quickly to confirm all participants she is teaching have grasped the various multi part harmonies and parts she is instructing. She is very patient and
never cross when teaching new singers.
In one line. Harilalao makes learning singing fun, enjoyable, and exciting, in a very professional way.
Paul Cummack-Singing student and member of the Wellington Community Choir
" Harilalao ( Lala ) is a great co-director of the Wellington Community Choir. She brings to the choir vitality, inclusiveness, a wide range of songs, clear musical direction , teamwork and fun. This means that as singers we are exposed to and learn to sing and enjoy a wide range of languages, singing styles and rhythms. Lala is also very good at choir direction and singing coaching, eg explaining actually how we sing that very high note. I joined the Wellington Community Choir as a singing novice and as a result of this wide ranging singing experiences my singing has developed to now I feel I can sing with any choir. I look forward to singing with the choir every week, it is the highlight of the week."
Leoni Hawkins-Member of the Wellington Community Choir
"Lala is a multi-talented, passionate woman with great music, rhythm and moves to share. She has a powerful, expressive and beautiful singing voice that is unforgettable, and a way with children that will capture your heart. I have had the great joy of dancing and singing with her for many years and her inspirational style and professionalism is unparalleled. I cannot recommend her highly enough!"- Jenny Bloomfield, Director of Moringa Dancers
"I have worked with Lala several times as an attendee at dance & song workshops, as well as hosting her in Palmerston North. I have always found her very professional, thorough and so delightful to work with. Her infectious personality and charm is intoxicating! Her beautiful voice and clever teaching technique makes working with her inspiring and very uplifting. Grab any opportunity you can to work with her!" - Jennifer Moss Music
