Bay of Plenty Symphonia is delighted to announce the five young musicians who will perform with the Bay’s community orchestra in this year’s popular Rising Stars Concerto Competition.
The finals concert, conducted by Justus Rozemond and supported by the Creative Communities Scheme (Tauranga), will be held at Baycourt on Saturday 21 August. The contestants are 12-18 year old classical instrumental musicians from around the Bay of Plenty, who relish the opportunity to perform solo with a live orchestra – as well as the chance to be acclaimed as winner of the Rising Star title.
The finalists and their chosen pieces are:
- Grace Tak (cello): Lalo – Concerto in D minor, 1st movement
- Hannah Seo (recorder): Vivaldi – Concerto in G, la Notte
- Hayden Butt (clarinet): Debussy – Premiere Rhapsodie
- Pilgyu Chang (piano): Chopin – Concerto no 1, 2nd movement
- Yusuke Takahashi (double bass): Capuzzi – Concerto in D, 1st movement
The Symphonia’s Rising Stars concerts have taken place every 2 years since 2009 and have secured a special place in the calendars of the Bay’s classical music lovers, young musicians and their teachers. As a member of the audience said after 2019’s event, ‘I really enjoy seeing and listening to the young musicians up on stage with their chance to play with a symphony orchestra. Such talent! An amazing concert!’. Many past contestants have gone on to pursue a career in music.
The contestants’ performances will be judged by a prestigious panel of nationally renowned professional musicians. During their deliberations trombonist Leo Read, winner of the 2019 competition, will entertain the audience. After the winner is announced, the evening will conclude with the presentation of prizes.
Further information: www.bopsymphonia.org.nz
