Young Violinist Wins a Date With the APO

Violinist Azeria D’Souza fended off strong competition to win this year’s KBB Music Young Performers Competition, held at Philharmonia Hall, Mt Eden, in association with Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO).

Azeria, a year 13 student at St Cuthbert’s College, beat four other finalists, impressing the judges with her performance of Vitali’s ‘Chaconne’.

She wins $500 and the opportunity to perform with the orchestra in next year’s APO Discovery concert at Auckland Town Hall.

The competition’s final round was judged by APO Manager of Artistic Planning Ronan Tighe; Dr Joseph Harrop, Programme Director, Sistema Aotearoa; and Sarah Shieff of the Institute of Registered Music Teachers New Zealand.

“Azeria showed an assuredness and security that impressed the panel,” said Mr Tighe, “I’m looking forward to hearing her play with the APO

The competition’s sponsor, KBB Music, was similarly enthusiastic about Azeria’s performance.

“Watching talented musicians is always special, and Azeria clearly has a big future ahead of her,” said KBB Music’s Marketing Coordinator, Jennifer Hsu. “Many youngsters have real ability but they don’t necessarily see music as a career. Through our sponsorship, we hope to encourage people like Azeria to take that next step towards becoming a professional musician.”

Azeria intends to pursue music, saying that it is a precious gift she enjoys sharing with others.