St John’s College cellist prepares to blow away the National Youth Music competition judges
St John's College cellist is guided by the internationally acclaimed cellist and conductor, Carel Henn.
St John’s College learner and cellist Jayden Li performed a selection from his repertoire in preparation for the upcoming National Youth Music Competition in Stellenbosch on November 15.
Jayden who began playing the violin and piano at an early age explained that his mother, Jin Ju inspired him to play the cello.
“My mother playing the cello sparked an interest in me and I have been playing it for eight years now.”
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The cellist explained that his solo cello recital performance was a way to prepare himself for playing in front of a large crowd.
“Today’s concert was a taste of what I will be doing at the national music competition in December. After today’s performance, I am confident in competing. I have participated in other music competitions but since I am older, I can participate in bigger competitions which will be major.”
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Jayden added the prize for winning the competition was performing with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and that was what he was aiming for.
St John’s College’s director of music Hendri Liebenberg expressed his excitement for Jayden competing in the musical competition.
“He is talented and works hard which is the key element. He is a good all-rounder which is an important secret to doing well,” he said.
The National Youth Music competition is intended for young classical musicians who are pianists or orchestral instrumentalists. The purpose of the competition is to:
- Identify and promote the talent and abilities of young classical musicians.
- Expose the competitors to the requirements of professional careers as soloists and orchestral musicians.
- Develop the stage and performing abilities of our young classical musicians.
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