Chris Ninni, an AIM alumnus, has successfully embraced a life of all things musical as he carries a fruitful career as a session singer, show band entertainer, music teacher and theatrical performer.

The former Bachelor of Music, Contemporary Performance student is currently the lead vocalist for Jason Gilkison’s internationally acclaimed theatre show ‘Burn The Floor’. The production showcases a fusion of traditional and Latin dancing, fuelled by the scintillating house band.

“Being given the lead male vocalist role in ‘Burn the Floor’ has changed so many aspects of my craft. It’s given me a greater depth of skills, knowledge, experience and confidence. Touring internationally, performing eight shows and maintaining the highest level of ability throughout, is very difficult but probably the most rewarding experience of my career to date.”

Prior to the glitz and the glamour, Chris was the Head of Music for three different high school colleges. His dedication to share his talent with others comes from deep roots. “Teaching is in the family, my mother is an art teacher and I guess the saying ‘apples don’t fall too far from the trees’ applies here. Teaching for me is such a rewarding experience. I get as much from my students as I give them. Being a part of someone’s musical self-discovery is such an honour.”

A likely parallel can be drawn from Chris’ life as he was too was once a music student. “AIM without question was my melting pot of inspiration. Without it, I couldn’t have defined who I am as a musician or performer. Thanks to all the amazing teachers and students who continue to have a lasting effect in my career.”

Recently, Chris succeeded through the blind auditions for Channel Nine’s talent reality show ‘The Voice’. It gave him the opportunity to settle some personal scores; battling his family’s doubts of singing as a professional career. Although Chris admits he’s not naturally gifted as a singer, he believes his hardworking and super determined attitude is the key to success.  

“There were three separate auditions just to get to the blind auditions, which made the experience all the more rewarding for me. To be recognized as a vocalist and have the chance to sing for the nation was extremely overwhelming and surreal all at the same time. An experience I’ll never forget and continue to replicate.”

“The most exciting aspect of being involved with ‘The Voice’ was to finally have some industry recognition, to be considered on the same playing field as many of my peers and to simply have that experience of finding what I love to do and do it best for whole of Australia and that is to SING!”

For more insight into Chris Ninni, visit his official page www.chrisninni.com