BY STEPHEN COUTTS AS TOLD TO CUTCOMMON
In this series, we introduce you to the participants in the 2019 Young Songmakers program, which is part of Songmakers Australia. They will each perform in the upcoming Schubertiade this October.
When I first heard about the Young Songmakers program, it was a dream of mine to audition and hopefully one day be part of the program. When this dream came true this year, I was able to experience a constant source of motivation, learning experiences and, above all, make very beautiful music.
Being a part of the Young Songmakers program has been an incredible opportunity and provided so many wonderful experiences. The opportunity to work with wonderful educators and mentors has taught me so much about music (in particular: lieder and art song), and also about myself as an artist.
The Young Songmakers program has given me the backbone which I need to further my music and language education. Songmakers Australia has provided me with the direction that I want to head in, in regards to my performing, which is a lieder and art song specialist.
The program involves weekly intensive masterclasses on lieder and art song repertoire, including language and music tuition, performance education, and character interpretation. The wealth of knowledge and experiences provided by Songmakers Australia’s educators and mentors through these masterclasses is world class, and provides the Young Songmakers with so many wonderful learning opportunities.
The other major aspect of this program is preparing repertoire, including solo, duo, and quartet for upcoming performances. These performances provide the chance for us as Young Songmakers to hone our artistry craft and showcase the skills which we have learnt through the Songmakers program.
It is my hope that many other students, like myself, will have the opportunity to thrive through this unique and incredible program. The Young Songmakers program, like many others in Australia, are wonderful experiences for young musicians, as each provides the cornerstone for their future musical prosperity and career.
See the Young Songmakers perform at Schubertiade, 5 and 6 October in the Hawthorn Arts Centre.
Image supplied.
