Young musicians have the opportunity to win a spot to play with a full string orchestra.
The Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra seeks applications for its sixth annual Young Musician’s Concerto Competition in February.
Open to musicians 21 years old or younger, the competition is announced with plenty of time for students to work with their teacher to prepare a piece of work.
The orchestra hosts the competition as part of its mandate to provide mentorship, encouragement and opportunities for promising young students. The orchestra hopes students choose to participate in auditions.
The winner and the runner-up receive cash prizes, with the winner featured as the guest artist for the orchestra’s two concerts in June. Students who previously auditioned are encouraged to do so again, having had another year of development under their belts.
Over the past five years, the orchestra featured two violinists, a bassoonist, a flutist and a pianist, each playing a full concerto.
Last year’s winner, Seamas Finnerty, won $500 and played Haydn’s Piano Concerto in D with the orchestra in Nanaimo. The Grade 11 student at Nanaimo District Secondary School earned his Grade 10 in piano, under the direction of Lynn Gauthier, and continues to study the instrument.
Application forms are available from Leslie Krull by calling 250-758-3317 or e-mailing lakrull@shaw.ca.
