Auckland violinist wins MusicWorks National Performers' Competition

Fifteen-year-old violinist Esther Kim is the winner of the 2008 MusicWorks National Performers’ Competition run by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

Ms. Kim, a student at St Cuthbert’s College, was named winner at the competition final held at Auckland’s Raye Freedman Arts Centre last night (Monday 16 May).

Ms. Kim wins a $500 cash prize provided by the APO Friends and will perform as a soloist with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra in concert next year.

Esther Kim was one of five finalists from throughout New Zealand. Each of the finalists rehearsed with New Zealand conductor Tecwyn Evans and the St. Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra in preparation for the final and to give them insight into a career as a soloist.

Miss Kim’s winning performance was of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, Autumn.

“All the contestants showed incredible talent and musicianship, but what distinguished Esther was the way she took command of the violin and of the performance,” says judge and APO Chief Executive Barbara Glaser.

Esther says she really enjoyed playing with St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra, and performing onstage at the final.

Hilary Hayes, 14-years-old, from Hamilton’s Sacred Heart Girls College, was also highly commended by the judges for her violin performance.

The other finalists were Azeria D’Souza (violin) – St Cuthbert’s College; Phoebe Harrop (flute) – New Plymouth Girls High; Hilary Hayes (violin) – Sacred Heart Girls College; Matthew Prater (viola) – Nayland College