Crawford International Ruimsig Grade Eight learner Dhivya Reddi-Beets has secured a place in the Swallow 15 Got Talent Grand Finale after finishing second in her age category at the semi-finals.

Dhivya received confirmation of her place in the finals on August 12, following a semi-final performance in which she showcased her guitar skills with Ozzy Osbourne’s Crazy Train and Meet Darth Ear from the Rockschool Grade Eight syllabus.

According to Dhivya, her achievement came despite a setback during her first performance of the semi-finals. Dhivya said she made a mistake while performing Meet Darth Ear, which affected her confidence and left her believing she had little chance of placing near the top.

“When I heard I’d come second, I almost cried,” she said.

The competition has been a learning experience for the young guitarist, who initially secured her place in the semi-finals after performing Canon Rock by Cole Rolland in the first round.

Dhivya said she had worked hard to prepare for the performance but thought she had jeopardised her chances after fumbling a section of the song.

“I honestly thought that mistake had cost me my place,” she said. “So, when the results were read out, and I heard I’d made it through to the semi-finals, I was surprised and really grateful to get another chance,” Dhivya expressed.

For the semi-finals, Dhivya said performing Crazy Train was a highlight, describing it as a thrilling experience.
“Ozzy is such a legend, so it felt special to play his music on that stage,” she said.

Speaking of preparations, Dhivya said it involved repeatedly working through the most difficult sections until they became comfortable. She also practised playing while sitting, standing and in awkward positions to prepare herself for different situations on stage.

For Dhivya, playing guitar is also a form of self-expression. “When I love a song, learning it and playing it makes me enjoy the music even more,” she said.

She names Eddie Van Halen and her music teacher, Kyle Grobler, among her biggest inspirations. She further said that Grobler’s belief in her encourages her to take on challenging pieces and continue improving.

With the Grand Finale now ahead, Dhivya said being among some of the strongest guitarists from Swallow 15 Music School would be a huge honour.

“I’ve always hoped to be recognised for the effort and passion I put into music,” she said.