Watch: Nine-year old impresses audience with 'Ave Maria' performance

Gugulethu Ndzendze has become an internet sensation after a video of her performing 'Ave Maria' went viral on social media. 

The nine-year-old was recorded performing an opera rendition of the song at a school event, where she was dressed in school uniform.

In an interview with IOL, the young star said she draws her inspiration from Zandile Mzazi, who sings classical opera music. 

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“I am inspired by Zandile Mzazi who sings classical opera music, Austrian composer Franz Schubert, award-winning Afro-pop singer Simphiwe Dana as well as American singer-songwriter Tori Kelly,” she told the publication. 

She added that she dreams of becoming an international icon and loves how music allows her to express her feelings. 

“I love music and enjoy singing....when I am on stage I enjoy connecting with the audience, expressing my feelings through music and entertaining people,” says Gugulethu.

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Her father, gospel artist Bongani Ndzendze, told the publication that the young star was supposed to perform in the UK on Britain’s talent show, 'The Voice Kids', but the trip was cancelled due to the Omicron variant that led to travel bans. 

Her father also revealed that she will be welcoming President Cyril Ramaphosa at the opening of Parliament in 2022. 

Watch Gugulethu perform below:

Image courtesy of Twitter screenshot.