Talented students excel at classical music finals

GEELONG College Year 10 student and cellist Harriet Carter-Williams claimed first prize at the recent regional finals of the Australian Youth Classical Music Awards.

Fellow college students Matthew Kweh in Year 11 and Joyce Qin in Grade 6 also placed in the top four.

The competition attracted 33 entrants and featured 12 finalists from across the region, including students from Geelong Grammar, Christian College and Kardinia International College. Harriet was over the moon to win.

“I definitely wasn’t expecting to be chosen for this award as everyone played so beautifully, so it made hearing my name be called even more special,” she said.

“It felt so nice for my music to be appreciated on that level, and I was so exhilarated that the judges and audience enjoyed my performance.”

She praised the school for its supportive and welcoming music community, where she has made some of her closest friends.

“I love seeing everyone have a crack and enjoy the music we make together and the teachers are so helpful and provide lots of fun opportunities to perform in various settings, which are great for becoming more confident and comfortable with concerts,” she said.

The college’s director of music Scott Templeton said Harriet was an impressive young musician.

“She has worked incredibly hard to maximise her talents, and her success is a just reward for her dedication.

“What was so impressive about her performance was the musical maturity in such a demanding piece from such a young performer in Year 10, as well as the joy that exudes from Harriet when she is playing cello.

“All of Geelong College is proud of Harriet’s achievement, along with those of Matthew and Joyce, who were both runners up. The fact that all three of our students were placed highly in the competition…speaks to the quality of the music program on offer at TGC and the wonderful opportunities it provides for talented musicians.”