Over the school holidays, Kayleen P (Year 8, Werribee) performed two piano pieces on live radio as a part of a music series called 'The Talent.'
The Talent is an exciting live performance program which assists young performers at the start of their careers by broadcasting recitals by musicians who are currently studying at tertiary institutions or have recently graduated.
Listen to Kayleen's performance here (from 29:32). She shares more about the experience below:
You started learning piano at just four years old. What first drew you to music, and what do you remember about those early lessons?
Well, I was actually first introduced to music by my parents, as they believed that the study of music had numerous benefits for the mind and body. And so, I started going to lessons every week under my current piano teacher, Fabiola Widjojo. I remember those early lessons to be very inspiring, and I felt welcomed and supported by the community from my piano studio. At the yearly recitals, watching the older students perform really brought out the passion and excitement I had for this instrument, and I aspired to be just like them.
What inspired you to choose piano, and what has kept you passionate about it over the years?
Originally, my parents were the ones who chose piano for me, and I really am thankful that they did, as it's such an amazing instrument! It is also such a versatile instrument, and makes an amazing introduction to the world of music. What keeps me inspired to continue playing piano is thinking of my future goals, dreams, and aspirations and all the people that have supported me along my journey; my parents, friends, piano teacher, and last but not least, God for giving me this talent! I feel extremely thankful for all of those who have helped me along the way, and those who have always reminded me of how far I've gone in my musical expedition.
Can you tell us a bit about the two pieces you performed on The Talent, ‘Automne’ by Cécile Chaminade and ‘Mr C.C’ by Hiromi Uehara, and why you chose them?
Well I selected both of those pieces for my performance, because they aren't as well known as some other pieces of music in the classical music world, and I love to perform unpopular and unique pieces, so that my audiences can be introduced to a different side of classical music. Automne, written by Chaminade, is a beautiful concert etude that paints the image of autumn. The expressive cantabile melody in the outer sections illustrates the tranquility and beauty that autumn brings, while the middle section depicts a fierce autumn storm. I genuinely find it amazing how Chaminade does all of this, only through the piano. My second piece, Mr C.C by Hiromi, is such a fun piece to play! This piece was actually inspired by and named after Charlie Chaplin, a mime artist from the 1930s. Hiromi took inspiration from Chaplin's mischievous mime acting, and turned it into a piece of music of her own kind.
How did you feel when you found out you would be performing live on the radio at just 13 years old?
I felt extremely excited and very grateful to have been selected to perform on The Talent! Originally I tried out for The Talent in hopes of making it in, but wasn't too sure about the outcome, when my phone suddenly beeped with the notification from my piano teacher, telling me that I had made it in!
What was your favourite part of being involved in The Talent music series?
My absolute favourite part of being part of The Talent series has to be the PD and photoshoots day! I loved being able to connect with all of the other amazing, skilled musicians on The Talent, and getting inspired by their commitments and achievements to music. It really reminded me of how close-knit everyone in the classical music community was!
You've already achieved a High Distinction in your AMEB exam. How has that experience shaped your approach to music?
Achieving a High Distinction in my AMEB Certificate of Performance piano exam was a significant milestone in my musical journey, and this experience really shaped my approach to music, as I learned the importance of musicality in a performance. This completely shifted my mindset towards my perspective as a performer, as an accurate but mechanical performance isn't as good as a musical one with a few slip-ups. I believe performing music is a way of telling a story without words, and not a competition of perfection.
You're now preparing for your Associate in Music exam. What has that journey been like so far?
Preparing for my Associate Diploma has been a somewhat interesting journey so far as I am trying out new, different pieces that I've never explored before, and really expanding out into the vast, musical world out there. Exploring different pieces by Haydn, Beethoven, Ravel, Grainger and Field, I'm able to learn each distinct style each of these composers bring through their works, and find what music I enjoy performing the most.
How has your time at Heathdale so far encouraged you in your music?
Throughout my time at Heathdale, I have been highly encouraged to pursue my love in music through different performance and ensemble opportunities. As a member of the string orchestra, 7–9 choir, and choir accompanist, I can definitely say that all of this has shaped me into becoming a better musician. The friendships that I've made along the way, and all the fun and happy memories I've shared with my friends is something I will keep with me forever. I would especially like to thank Mrs Baker for hosting these events and always supporting me along the way.
What would you like to say to encourage other students who are passionate about music or thinking about starting an instrument?
Well firstly, if you're contemplating whether or not you should learn an instrument, I would say to just go for it! Music was designed by God as an art form that everyone has the right to enjoy and practice, and you never know where it may lead you in the future. For those passionate about music, always remember to never give up and continue cultivating the passion and love you have for music! Quitting leads you nowhere, but continuing leads you to somewhere amazing. It's also extremely important to remember that mistakes are an essential part of the journey. Just because you messed up at the last concert doesn't mean that you're bad! Even the most renowned musicians all over the world mess up from time to time! Learning from your mistakes and progressing from there is key.
What are your hopes and goals for your future in music?
I've got quite a few goals for my future in music! Somewhere in my near future, I aspire to be a piano teacher, unlocking God's gift of music in all my students. But other than that, I would love to perform in many different audiences all over the world, introducing different kinds of music to everyone.