One of Cobram’s up-and-coming stars of the classical music world has taken the next big step towards achieving her dreams.
On Saturday, February 22, Year 11 student Jessie Ashcroft auditioned at the University of Melbourne’s South Bank campus for a spot in the Melbourne Youth Wind Symphony.
She performed three pieces: Sicilienne by Philippe Gaubert, part of the Lincolnshire Posy by Percy Grainger and part of Beethoven’s Eroica.
With just two weeks to learn two new pieces, Jessie also had to sight-read another new piece.
She impressed conductor Rick Keenan so much that she was accepted on the spot and thrown into rehearsals that very afternoon.
With rehearsals every Saturday afternoon, Jessie said she was excited to spend more time in Melbourne.
“I’m hoping to become a more well-rounded player with ensemble experience,” she said.
Jessie made headlines in October last year for impressing judges at the Victorian State Solo Championships.
She’ll get the chance to be part of upcoming performances with the symphony in May and August this year.