Young talent thrives in New Zealand

Young talent thrives in New Zealand

A record number of 524 groups have entered the Chamber Music Contest 2004.

The contest is run by Chamber Music New Zealand and is for secondary school musicians. It is the first time in the event¹s 39 year history that entries in the performance section have exceeded 500.

Nineteen entries have also been received for the contest¹s original composition section.

Groups from 14 regions nationwide will compete in District Contest events in June. Eight groups will then be selected by the adjudicators to compete in the National Final in Christchurch on Saturday 31st July.

National Organiser Megan Mannering says the Chamber Music Contest has proved a successful breeding ground for future success in recent years. Last year¹s National Final was won by Auckland trio, The Three Slippers comprised of violinist Amalia Hall, cellist Eunice Park and pianist John-Paul Muir.

Amalia recently won sixth prize in the prestigious 5th International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians held in Japan.

Another 2003 National Finalist, Jessie Cassin, recently found fame as a NZ Idol Top 10 finalist. Jessie was a member of the chamber music group Melisma.

"It is gratifying to see young musicians who have experienced competing in the Chamber Music Contest go on to achieve beyond it. An important part of the competition is to build confidence among young musicians and provide a base from which their talents and careers can flourish," says Megan.

In presenting the Chamber Music Contest, Chamber Music New Zealand acknowledges sponsorship from the de Croÿ Arts Trust and funding from Creative New Zealand.

ENDS

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