By ALESHA CAPONE
COURTNEY Thompson was born with a song in her heart and a talent for performing.
The young Caroline Springs resident recalls singing for her grandmother as a four-year-old.
She joined the school choir at seven and a few years later decided her future career would be in show business.
“It was probably when I got up on stage at age 11 and realised this is what I want to do with my life,” Courtney said.
Now aged 16, she teaches a children’s choir on weekends at the Caroline Springs School of Music.
Being the eldest of six siblings makes her the ideal choir leader.
“I really enjoy working with little kids,” Courtney said.
On 21 September, the young songstress will compete in the Best of the West grand final at the WestWaters Hotel and Entertainment Complex in Caroline Springs.
The contest has been designed to showcase the range of artistic talent in the West.
“I perform everything but definitely jazz would be one of my favourites and songs from musicals too,” Courtney said.
She became a jazz fan after hearing the song Orange Coloured Sky and cites Natalie Cole and Patti Page as two of her role-models.
“I just love getting up on stage and performing,” Courtney said
“What I enjoy is that it just makes me feel on top of the world, which I know sounds like a cliché, and gives the feeling that no-one can touch you.”
Courtney said she hopes to study music at university, then join a dance company and perform on cruise ships.
She thanked her music teachers at Lakeview Senior College and the Caroline Springs School of Music.
The Best of the West grand final will be on at the WestWaters Hotel and Entertainment Complex, 10 – 20 Lake St, Caroline Springs at 10.45am on Saturday 21 September.
