A Girvan opera singer who has sang at the Royal Opera House has been given the honour of being named the top judge at a global signing competition.

Linda Finnie, a Mezzo-Soprano, has performed all over the world and has won some of the top awards in the vocalist community. 

She won the Kathleen Ferrier Memorial Award in London and also the Kathleen Ferrier Prize in The Netherlands.

The former Carrick Academy pupil has performed in all the major opera houses in Great Britain, significantly with the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and English National Opera, London, and with all the leading British orchestras and conductor in concert, recordings and at the BBC Proms.

Speaking to The Advertiser about being named President of the Jury, Linda explained what her duties will include. 

She said, "My duties as President of the Jury, include giving a speech at the opening live streamed ceremony of the Concour.

"I will also be presiding over a jury of distinguished singers, and leading artistic directors of international opera houses. While another part of the role also involves giving press interviews, regarding my career.

"The final duty I will have is presenting the prizes to the successful winners on the final evening."

She added: "As an eminent Alumna recipient of the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Prize of the International Vocalisten Concour ‘s-Hertogenbosch Netherlands, it is an honour and privilege to return in the capacity of President of the International Jury.

"The IVC had a pivotal role in launching my distinguished international career and it is an honour to give back in this way. 

"I am personally looking forward to being in the position of partially being responsible for helping to establish the careers of the talented young singers, under the auspices of the IVC.

"Returning to Den Bosch where I have so many happy memories, working with new colleagues and being privileged to hear the cream of today’s young artists and meeting up with old friends, will be a most enjoyable experience."