Resident Composer Inspired by the Romantic Era

Music has always come naturally to William Squire, who was singing before he could speak. It is no surprise music strikes a natural chord with this stunning musician, his Father is currently the Chair of the New Zealand Association of Choral Directors, and Conductor of the New Zealand Youth Choir. William studied the piano from 5 years old, followed by the violin a year later. In Year 7 he picked up the French Horn and after managing all 3 instruments for a year, the French Horn become his focus and choice of instrument. He attended Westlake Boys Highschool and wasted no time to immerse himself into the world of music. He studied and attained Grade 6 in all three instruments, through ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) and is in the process of completing Grade 8 examinations in the French Horn.

The world of music has provided many rewarding experiences through education, performance and opportunities to travel internationally. William has been privileged to perform in the Westlake Boys Choir ‘Voicemale’ who have performed at international events, including Mass at the St Peter’s Basilica and in 2018 winning the Grand Prix award in the Leonardo da Vinci International Choral Festival in Florence Italy.

William enjoys the noble tones of the French Horn and performing pieces from the Romantic Era, with his favourite piece being ‘Nocturno Op.7’ by Franz Strauss. Composing has become a way to experience the power of music for William. In year 10 he extended his interest in music through composition and began winning competitions, the most recent being the U25 category in the Compose Aotearoa Competition in 2022. His composition ‘Flames’ can be viewed on the link where it was performed by Choralation at the Big Sing in the Christchurch Town Hall.

William is studying Engineering and wants to focus on Mechanical. He is also making time to study music as an elective, where he can continue his passion and talent for the French Horn, choral work and composition. He is looking forward to performing as part of the New Zealand Youth Choir at the upcoming official Anzac National Commemoration Service at Pukeahu, National War Memorial Park in Wellington on Tuesday 25 April.