| Born | 10 April 1987 |
|---|---|
| Origin | Christchurch, New Zealand |
| Genres | Classical, Pop, Celtic, Operatic pop |
| Occupations | Singer |
| Instruments | Vocals, Piano, Guitar |
| Years active | 2000 - Present |
| Labels | Universal New Zealand Decca Records |
| Associated acts | Celtic Woman |
Hayley Dee Westenra (born 10 April 1987 in Christchurch, New Zealand)[1][2] is a New Zealand soprano, songwriter and UNICEF Ambassador. Her first internationally released album, Pure, reached #1 on the UK classical charts in 2003 and has sold more than two million copies worldwide. Pure is the fastest-selling international début classical album to date, having made Westenra an international star at age 16. In August 2006, she joined the Irish group Celtic Woman, was featured on their Celtic Woman: A New Journey CD and DVD, toured with them on their 2007 Spring Tour, and also was featured on their latest DVD, The Greatest Journey: Essential Collection, released in 2008. She sings songs in a number of languages.
Westenra has performed for dignitaries around the world. She is the youngest UNICEF Ambassador to date and has contributed to charities around the world.
