Michael Yadao is the new star of the West after taking out Highpoint’s Star Search competition on Saturday. 68910 Picture: JOE MASTROIANNI
By Charlene Gatt
WEST Sunshine crooner Michael Yadao was all smiles over the weekend after taking out Highpoint’s Star Search competition.
Michael, 21, took out the main award for the open age category after wowing judges with his vocal talent and guitar solo of the David Ryan Harris song “For You”.
Fellow singers Isabella Yoseski and Sheralyn May Hill won the 3-10 and 11-16 year old categories respectively.
Michael thanked his family and friends for their support.
“I’m speechless,” he said after winning the title.
Michael, who is in his final year studying music at JMC Academy, said he found the audition process overwhelming, but thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
“I had to get used to the auditioning and the nerves that came with performing in front of an audience,” he said.
A total 175 people registered for the auditions, with 36 making it through to the heats and 13 battling it out in the grand final.
The competition, which uncovers the best hidden talent in the West, has helped launch the careers of singers Vanessi Amorosi and Anthony Callea.
Michael will receive two days recording time with studio ESP Audio, which includes 20 copies of his recorded tracks.
