The students of Penrith Conservatorium of Music are an endless source of pride for our tutors, staff, parents and community.
Throughout winter, Penrith Con students have produced so much amazing work, and we want to take a moment to publicly acknowledge their accomplishments. Here are just a few of their stories.
Left to right: Gordon Miller, Amanda Handel, Thomas Matula
Gordon Miller (Piano)
A Winter’s Eve (piano concert)
Gordon Miller is a student of Amanda Handel and recipient of the 2023 Encouragement Trophy (pictured above). He recently presented an outstanding recital in Wentworth Falls:
“On June 29th, I had the pleasure of performing a piano concert A Winter’s Eve at the Good Earth Bookshop in Wentworth Falls. Sharing the stage with fellow pianist Thomas Matula, who also studies under Amanda Handel, was a wonderful experience. The intimate setting of the bookstore created a cozy and inviting atmosphere for our audience of friends, family, and fellow music enthusiasts.
Our program included a variety of classical, jazz, pop, and contemporary pieces which were very well-received. A standout aspect of the evening’s performance and adding to the evening’s charm was the piano – a 150 year old John Broadwood & Sons. The instrument was beautifully restored by Emmanuel Rey in 2021 and generously donated by a local family who had cherished it for 53 years.
The rich history and exquisite sound of this magnificent instrument added a special touch to our music. The night concluded with a sense of accomplishment and joy, knowing we had shared our passion for music with an appreciative audience. I look forward to more performances like this as I continue on my musical journey.”
Hanna & Emily Domjan celebrate their success at Sydney Eisteddfod
Hanna Domjan (Piano)
1st Place, 19th Century Piano (11 & 12 Years), Sydney Eisteddfod 2024
Emily Domjan (Piano)
3rd Place, 20th & 21st Century Piano (7 Years & Under), Sydney Eisteddfod 2024
Congratulations are due to Hanna Domjan (12), who won first place in the Sydney Eisteddfod category 19th Century Piano (11 & 12 Years), playing Chopin’s Etude Op 10#5 (the “Black Key Etude”). Hanna was competing against 84 other pianists. Her young sister Emily (5) received third place in the section 20th & 21st Century Piano (7 Years & Under).
Their tutor John Hines remarks that “the Sydney Eisteddfod is highly competitive, and these results reflect the excellent effort and commitment of Hanna and Emily. Well done, both of you.”
Hanna is the recipient of the 2024 Jennifer Hammond Scholarship. Later this year, She looks forward to competing in the National Eisteddfod in Canberra, as well as the Penrith Eisteddfod piano competition. She writes: “Music helps me to express my feelings and build my confidence … I hope when I grow up I can be a musician and spread the happiness to other people.”
John Paul Foong receives multiple prizes for exceptional performance at Sydney Eisteddfod
John Paul Foong (Piano)
1st Place, 18th Century Piano (15 & 16 Years), Sydney Eisteddfod 2024
2nd Place, Recital Award (15 & 16 Years), Sydney Eisteddfod 2024
Young pianist John Paul Foong has been awarded 1st Place in the 18th Century Piano (15 & 16 Years) section, and 2nd Place in the Recital Award (15 & 16 Years) section of Sydney Eisteddfod on Saturday 13th July.
“This was a great challenge for me as I had to play against some very talented pianists, and I was pleased that I did so well.”
A student of Nadia Koudasheva, John Paul is the recipient of the 2024 Richard Bonynge Piano Scholarship at Penrith Conservatorium of Music.
“Now that I have finished the competitions, I will probably start some new repertoire, including some 20th Century music. I have just finished learning all three movements of Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and to be able to play the last movement well is very rewarding as it is regarded as a difficult piece. I have also been learning some Bach and Chopin, I enjoy studying piano and would like to continue to do so and hopefully develop my skills so that I can have a career in music when I get older.”
Leah Vernon (Voice)
Distinction, Rockschool Grade 4 Voice
Anjali Premarathne (Voice)
Distinction, Rockschool Grade 2 Voice
Two voice students of Yasmin Arkinstall have each received outstanding exam results. Anjali Premarathne was awarded a Distinction (96) for her Rockschool Grade 2 Vocal exam performance. Leah Vernon received the 2024 Ars Musica Scholarship, and was awarded a Distinction (90) for her Rockschool Grade 4 Vocal exam.
Their tutor Yasmin celebrates their achievement: “I would like to say a big congratulations to my singing students who are developing so beautifully with their vocal technique, expression and overall musicianship!”
Neha Jimmy (Voice)
Finalist, Penrith Young Champions Awards 2024
Congratulations to Neha Jimmy who has been selected as a finalist in the Penrith Young Champions Awards! Neha is a talented vocalist studying under Rebecca Hilder.
The Penrith Young Champions Awards are open to young people under 19 living, studying or working in Penrith LGA. The Awards will be presented at a Gala High Tea Ceremony with entertainment on Friday 23 August 2024, 7pm at St Mary’s League Club.
Congratulations to all of the above for their exceptional accomplishments. We can’t wait to hear what you do next!
(Did we miss anyone? Let us know of your achievements by email to conservatorium@penrith.city)