Receiving an honorary degree from the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka feels like a "full circle moment" for an illustrious opera singer.
Otago alumnus Professor Jonathan Lemalu (ONZM) will be presented with an Honorary Doctor of Music at Saturday's graduation ceremony, where he will also give the graduation address.
Professor Lemalu is an award-winning operatic bass who has performed at renowned opera houses around the world.
He says calling the degree an honour does not do it justice.
"To be recognised for what I've done in my field so far in this way is truly humbling," he says.
"Given my work in higher education at the Royal College of Music in London, supporting students in their degree and master's vocal studies, this feels even more poignant – a full circle moment in many ways."
From Dunedin, Professor Lemalu studied law and music at Otago, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws in 1999.
He says his time at the University was hugely formative, despite some early challenges.
"I struggled in my first year with the changes from high school in freedom, self-sufficiency, and accountability.
"Looking back, my law degree here was the most difficult as it didn't come easily. And that's what makes it even more rewarding.
"Singing opera might be hard, but legal history is harder. Trust me!"
A career in law wasn't to be, as Professor Lemalu instead went on to graduate with distinction from the Royal College of Music, where he is now a vocal studies professor and Deputy Head of Vocal & Opera, and received the College's top award, the Tagore Gold Medal, presented by then- HRH Prince Charles. He was made a Fellow of the College in 2022.
That same year he was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to opera in the Queen's Birthday and Platinum Jubilee Honours and in 2010 he was a winner of the Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording for his work on Benjamin Britten's Billy Budd.
He has performed at opera houses around the world, such as the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, Royal Ballet and Opera in London, and Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich.
Professor Lemalu is just the fourth person to be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Music from Otago since 1969 and the first in about 19 years.
Vice-Chancellor Grant Robertson says this highlights the incredible contribution Professor Lemalu has made to music.
"Jonathan is truly an outstanding alumnus, whose dedication and talent has seen him perform at the highest level on stages all over the world. That is matched by his academic career that has seen him become a Professor and Fellow of the Royal College of Music."
"With a distinguished career and a household name, we couldn't be prouder that his journey started at Otago and to honour him in this way."
Professor Lemalu credits his success to his parents.
"My parents have always prioritised education, and so I accept this, standing proudly on their shoulders, accepting it on their behalf as well."
While in Dunedin, Professor Lemalu will present a concert on Monday 11 May to recognise the "vibrant Dunedin singing scene that shaped me".
"I've invited several ensembles that I've performed with as a student, including the Otago Capping Sextet and the School of Performing Arts.
"It's a chance to say thanks, celebrate them and in some instances sing with them again."
